Grayson Murray’s untimely death has devastated the golf world, and Rory McIlroy is the latest high-profile talent to send an emotional tribute at the RBC Canadian Open.
Rory McIlroy called Grayson Murray’s death “very tragic,” emphasizing how “weak and frail” top athletes can be.
Murray died of carbon monoxide poisoning at his Florida home, where he lived with his fiancee, at 10:30 a.m. local time on Saturday, less than 24 hours after withdrawing from the Charles Schwab Challenge.
Murray had previously openly revealed his issues with alcohol and mental health throughout the years, and it wasn’t until 2023 that he regained his PGA Tour status. Tributes have flooded in from all over the sporting world, with four-time major winner McIlroy among the most recent high-profile figures to address Murray’s death.
“It’s terribly sad, first and foremost, and I believe we’re all thinking of Grayson’s family and hoping that they’re doing well and getting through this extremely difficult time,” McIlroy said ahead of the RBC Canadian Open.
“It’s a cliche, but it puts everything into context. At the end of the day, golf is golf, and while we do play it for a livelihood, it pales in comparison to the things that truly matter in life.
“I’ve had to accept that at times, and I’m still working on it in terms of not making golf the be-all and end-all of my life. Something like that happened last week, and I believe it strikes you in the face.
“It’s incredibly sad, and everyone out here has to remember that we go out and do things that a lot of people can’t, but at the end of the day, we’re still human beings, vulnerable and fragile, and I think if there’s one lesson for anyone out there, it’s to be kinder to one another.”
Golf World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler also responded to the devastating news. “Obviously, coming out to the golf course today was a difficult decision given the news about Grayson from yesterday. “I spent that moment of silence today thinking about him and praying for his family and fiancee,” he explained.
“It was tough for him to come and play golf, but as his parents stated, he would have rather that the competition continue. Over the last six months, I’ve gotten to know him rather well, having shared a few meals with him and playing a few practice matches.
“He spent a few hours at our rented place last week. It’s a terrible day for us on tour, and we’re thinking about his family and praying for them.
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