Grayson Murray’s Longtime Coach Ted Kiegiel Pays Special Tribute After His Death: ‘I Am Absolutely Numb’
Grayson Murray’s longtime coach and mentor, Ted Kiegiel, has released a moving tribute following the tragic death of the golfer by suicide. Kiegiel, who began coaching Murray when he was only eight, expressed his deep sorrow and shock at the loss. Murray, who was ranked world No. 58 and had won twice on the PGA…
Grayson Murray’s longtime coach and mentor, Ted Kiegiel, has released a moving tribute following the tragic death of the golfer by suicide.
Kiegiel, who began coaching Murray when he was only eight, expressed his deep sorrow and shock at the loss. Murray, who was ranked world No. 58 and had won twice on the PGA Tour, passed away at age 30 after withdrawing from the second round of the Charles Schwab Challenge in Texas.
In his tribute, Kiegiel said he was ‘absolutely numb’ and ‘crushed’ by the news. He wrote, “Words cannot express the tragedy of this moment. Grayson came from something that was ordinary and made it EXTRAORDINARY. He burned bright for the 30 years he gave us.”
Describing their close relationship, Kiegiel added, “He was family. He was more than family. We were kindred spirits – sharing so many victorious ‘life’ moments, while suffering through downturns that challenged his very essence. It was my honor to serve as your coach and mentor. I will miss you so, so very much and will carry your memory all of my days.”
Murray had openly spoken about his struggles with depression, anxiety, and alcoholism. His parents, Eric and Terry Murray, also paid tribute to their son, describing the ‘nightmare’ they are enduring and the many unanswered questions they face.
Kiegiel recounted the beginning of his long relationship with Murray, which started when Eric Murray arranged a golf lesson for his young son. “As chance would have it, that meeting would go on to forge a lifelong journey for us,” Kiegiel wrote.
He praised Murray’s character, saying, “Grayson was a kind and gentle soul – that had the heart of a Lion when it came to competing in golf. From his earliest days as a very successful junior player to his time on the PGA Tour, he stood among the best in the game and was respected for his talent. His true character was based in loving kindness toward those he knew or if you somehow came into his presence.”
Kiegiel also paid tribute to Murray’s parents, describing them as “the salt of the earth,” and expressed his deep affection for them. “Grayson will be dearly missed by his many friends and family – as well as the world of golf,” he concluded.
