As the RBC Canadian Open commences this week, the atmosphere is expected to be somewhat sombre due to the recent passing of Grayson Murray. The shock waves of his suicide have been felt throughout the golf community, amplifying the fact that life, undoubtedly, is more significant than any sport or competition.
In this prestigious event, one of the PGA tour’s best-attended, the star of the show is the world’s third-ranked player, Rory McIlroy. However, also in attendance will be Shane Lowry and Séamus Power, preparing for a busy stretch that includes the Memorial, the US Open and the Travelers – two banner events and a Major Championship.
Despite this, the lingering effect of Murray’s untimely demise cannot be ignored. The recent golf tournament at Fort Worth, Texas – the Charles Schwab Challenge – proceeded and was ultimately taken by Davis Riley, indicating how one week briskly transitions into the next on the professional circuit, allowing limited time for pause and contemplation.
The players themselves provided insightful perspectives reflecting on their colleague’s death. Peter Malnati, who participated alongside Murray in the first two rounds at Colonial, voiced his heavy-heartedness, underlining how such incidents remind them of being mere humans within the competitive environment. He lamented over Murray’s struggle with life, which he had openly shared.
The world’s top-ranked player, Scottie Scheffler, also expressed his condolences, stating that he had become quite familiar with Murray in recent times. Scheffler called it a challenging day for everyone on the tour and expressed deep sympathy towards Murray’s family.
Reflecting on the tragic demise of Murray, former tour player Harry Higgs, who was trying to get back to the primary tour via the Korn Ferry Tour, was vocal about the overwhelming sadness that struck the golf community. Despite his consecutive victories on the secondary tour, which arguably guarantee his full card for the upcoming season, Higgs’ focus remained firmly on Murray’s bereaved family, noting that the game, despite being enjoyable, bears no true meaning in the face of such sorrowful events.
Murray, a 30-year-old two-time champion on the PGA Tour, had been open about his struggles with alcohol addiction and recurring depression. His most recent victory was at the Hawaii Sony Open, earlier this year – a moment that seemed to hint towards a long-awaited redemption. Murray had been sober for eight months when he unveiled his battles with depression and low self-esteem, issues he believed are universally faced by many. He had sought help, arguing that it was the turning point in his life.
However, after only four months of being open about his struggles, Murray took his own life after pulling out from the Charles Schwab citing illness.
Regarding the PGA Tour’s endeavours to provide players with aid, Jay Monahan, the chief executive, elaborated on personal conversations he had with Murray to understand better how depressed players could be helped. The ultimate objective was to assist everyone in coping. Monahan proudly recognised the advancements made to create support systems for players, which will be crucial in the coming weeks and months.
Individuals affected by similar issues addressed in this article are urged to reach out to The Samaritans on 116 123 or via email at jo@samaritans.ie.