PGA Tour star Grayson Murray has tragically died during the second round of the Charles Schwab Challenge. The 30-year-old withdrew with two holes remaining after shooting 68 through 16 holes at Colonial Golf Course in Texas before the tragic news emerged with the PGA Tour offering to stop the tournment. 

In the wake of the devastating news, PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan released a statement which read: “We were devastated to learn – and are heartbroken to share – that PGA TOUR player Grayson Murray passed away this morning. I am at a loss for words. The PGA TOUR is a family, and when you lose a member of your family, you are never the same. We mourn Grayson and pray for comfort for his loved ones.

“I reached out to Grayson’s parents to offer our deepest condolences, and during that conversation, they asked that we continue with tournament play. They were adamant that Grayson would want us to do so. As difficult as it will be, we want to respect their wishes.”

Murray had earned his second career PGA Tour victory by winning the Sony Open in a playoff. He impressed after making his first cut on the Korn Ferry Tour at the age of 16, winning his first PGA Tour title in 2017 and emerged victorious in Hawaii back in January after regaining his card via the Korn Ferry Tour.

Murray clinched his second PGA Tour victory with a clutch up and down on the 72nd hole for a birdie to force the sudden-death playoff. He elevated his game when it mattered most, sinking a 40-foot birdie putt on the first extra hole to defeat Byeong Hun An and Keegan Bradley.

The victory ensured Murray reached a career-high 46th in the Official World Golf Ranking. He withdrew on Friday having cited illness.

Murray had been open about his battles with anxiety and depression, even speaking in January when he revealed he sought treatment in the past few years for alcohol abuse - but insisted he had been sober for months. After his triumph at Waialae, Murray spoke about his future, declaring he had rediscovered his faith and was engaged to partner Christiana Ritchie.

“I wouldn’t trade anything,” Murray said at the time. “I have a beautiful fiancée. I have beautiful parents. I have beautiful nephews, siblings. Everyone in my life right now who is close to me, who has been through the struggles with me, it’s all a team effort. I think this is just the start of something really special.”

After originally offering to cancel the tournament, Monahan’s statement confirmed the Charles Schwab Challenge will continue as planned even amid the news as a tribute to his memory. Monahan is en route to Texas too, and suggested more details will be shared when they come to light.

The PGA Tour has confirmed grief counselors will be available at the venues for players to utilise at this week’s events, as well as the Korn Ferry Tour.

For emotional support you can call the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.