Jim Nantz had to deliver rough news while live on air.
While speaking on the CBS broadcast of the third round of the Charles Schwab Challenge on Saturday, Nantz became emotional as he announced that two-time PGA Tour winner Grayson Murray died at 30 years old.
“I just want to say that the Tour did offer to the [Murray] family to stop play, right here basically at the top of the hour,” Nantz said. “The family was adamant that Grayson and the family wants the tournament to go on. Grayson Murray, gone way too soon, at the age of 30.”
Murray had withdrawn from the Charles Schwab Challenge on Friday due to illness, though no cause of death has been announced.
He won the Sony Open this past January as well as Barbasol Championship in 2017, and had 10 top-10 finishes.
“It’s a sad day on the PGA Tour,” Nantz said. “And somehow, with heavy hearts, we’re gonna cover a golf tournament after a break. We’re gonna cover it, we’re gonna try as best we can, be as respectful as we can in our tone and in our hearts.”
After playing collegiately at Wake Forest, East Carolina and Arizona State, Murray turned pro in 2015.
“We were devastated to learn — and are heartbroken to share — that PGA Tour player Grayson Murray passed away this morning,” PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan said in a statement. “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. The PGA Tour has grief counselors available at both tournament sites, as well as virtually for those not in the field. I am en route to Ft. Worth and will share more information when we can.”
