Grayson Murray to Retain World Golf Ranking Despite Tragic Death

Grayson Murray, a professional golfer who died by suicide on May 25, will retain his Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) of 61 until after the Travelers Championship on June 23. This decision follows a precedent set by the OWGR in 1999 when Payne Stewart, who died in a plane crash, remained in the ranking for three weeks posthumously.

Murray's ranking could potentially climb back into the top 60 during this period as a result of the rolling two-year formula used by the OWGR. However, this is considered unlikely given the number of players close behind him competing at the Memorial Tournament.

The significance of Murray's ranking lies in its impact on the U.S. Open qualification. The OWGR will be used to determine the top 60 players not already exempt for the U.S. Open, scheduled to take place shortly after the Travelers Championship. If Murray were to move into the top 60, the United States Golf Association (USGA) plans to remove him from consideration, passing the exemption to the next eligible player.

This situation mirrors the case of Payne Stewart, the 1999 U.S. Open champion, who was ranked 8th in the world when he died on October 25, 1999. Stewart remained in the ranking for three weeks before his name was removed, setting a precedent for how the OWGR handles the rankings of deceased players.

Robert MacIntyre's recent victory at the Canadian Open, which moved him from No. 76 to No. 39 in the OWGR, illustrates the dynamic nature of these rankings. MacIntyre's win secured his spot in the U.S. Open, demonstrating how significant shifts in rankings can occur rapidly, impacting major tournament qualifications.

The golf world continues to mourn the loss of Grayson Murray, his achievements and contributions to the sport remaining recognized through his retained ranking. The OWGR's decision highlights the respect and acknowledgment of Murray's career, even in the wake of his tragic passing.

Thus, Grayson Murray's OWGR of 61 will be maintained until after the Travelers Championship on June 23, with the potential but unlikely prospect of climbing back into the top 60. This decision aligns with the precedent set by Payne Stewart's posthumous ranking retention in 1999, reflecting the OWGR's approach to honoring the legacies of golfers who have passed away.

Key Takeaways

• Grayson Murray's OWGR of 61 will be retained until after the Travelers Championship on June 23.
• Murray's ranking could potentially climb back into the top 60 during this period.
• The OWGR's decision follows a precedent set by Payne Stewart's posthumous ranking retention in 1999.
• Murray's ranking impacts U.S. Open qualification, with the USGA planning to remove him if he reaches top 60.
• The OWGR's decision honors Murray's legacy and contributions to the sport of golf.