Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top-ranked golfer, was visibly moved during a poignant moment of silence at the Charles Schwab Challenge.
The PGA Tour paused to honour those who have died in military service on US soil, and this year, the solemn tribute also commemorated the life of fellow golfer Grayson Murray, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 30.
CBS’s esteemed broadcaster Jim Nantz captured the sentiment perfectly, saying: “There’s a bit of a tradition here over Memorial Day Weekend at the Colonial, and that is a moment of silence on this special American holiday weekend. Let’s be honest, on this day it has dual purpose.”
As naval helicopters flew by in a ceremonial formation, Scheffler was seen wiping his eyes, clearly affected by the sombre occasion. Just a day before, he had expressed his heartfelt sympathies for Murray’s bereaved family.
Obviously, the news hasn’t really sunk in quite yet, but I’m thinking about his family and praying hard for all of them,” he said.
I can’t imagine how difficult of a time this is. I got to know Grayson a bit better over the last six months or so. There’s not really a way to put into words how sad and tragic it is, but I’m thinking about his family.”
In a heart-wrenching statement released via the PGA Tour, the bereaved parents of golfer Grayson Murray revealed the devastating news of his suicide. “We have spent the last 24 hours trying to come to terms with the fact that our son is gone,” Eric and Terry Murray said.
It’s surreal that we not only have to admit it to ourselves, but that we also have to acknowledge it to the world. It’s a nightmare.”
The Murrays extended their gratitude towards the golf community for their overwhelming support, adding: “We would like to thank the PGA Tour and the entire world of golf for the outpouring of support.
“Life wasn’t always easy for Grayson, and although he took his own life, we know he rests peacefully now.”
To pay tribute to Murray, numerous PGA Tour competitors and caddies sported black and red ribbons during the Charles Schwab Challenge’s concluding round. These ribbons were a nod to Murray’s passion for the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes.
The Murray family has requested that players and caddies wear black or red ribbons as a show of support for Grayson during today’s final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge,” the PGA Tour said, alongside a selection of pins for participants.
“Grayson wore red and black on PGA Tour Sundays as a tribute for being a long-time fan of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes.”
The Korn Ferry Tour also held a moment of silence for Murray before the final round of the Visit Knoxville Open. The American golfer, who won three titles on this circuit before joining the PGA Tour, claimed victory at the Barbasol Championship in 2017 and the Sony Open in January.
