PGA TOUR
Grayson Murray Augusta-Bound After Sony Open Win
Grayson Murray showcased exceptional skill and resilience, sealing a remarkable comeback with a triumphant victory at the Sony Open in Hawaii. The 30-year-old American, whose career had faced significant challenges since his 2017 Barbasol Championship win, secured a three-way playoff spot after a stellar 3-under 67 that culminated in making a three-foot birdie putt at the 72nd hole.
In the playoff, Murray faced off against compatriot Keegan Bradley and Korea’s Byeong Hun An. At the first extra hole, An found himself in prime position after a skillful pitch to four feet set up a seemingly certain birdie at the par 5, 18th green. However, Murray buried an unlikely 39-foot putt for a spectacular birdie. Bradley missed his 18-foot birdie attempt. Then, in a heart-wrenching moment, An missed his short putt, paving the way for Murray to hoist the trophy.
Murray's journey to this victorious moment goes beyond the golf course. Eight months sober and in a renewed state of mind, he embarked on the season feeling like a transformed individual. The win, his second PGA Tour title and first in over six years, could not have come at a more opportune time, propelling him into the prestigious Masters tournament at Augusta for the first time.
Closing at 17-under 263, Murray's victory was not just a personal triumph but a career-defining moment, earning him just under US$1.5 million and a coveted spot in seven remaining Signature Events, including THE PLAYERS. Reflecting on the win, he acknowledged its transformative impact on his career: "I knew today was not going to change my life, but it did change my career."
In the midst of this golfing drama, Carl Yuan and Russell Henley had their chances, each closing with sensational 7-under 63s. Henley's misstep on the 16th and Yuan's error on the 17th, followed by an unexpected break for Yuan on the 18th, highlighted the unpredictable nature of the game. Yuan and Henley took a share of fourth pace at 16-under.
JT Poston fired the round of the day on Sunday. His stunning 9-under 61 moved him up 33 places to solo fifth place at 15-under.
Cam Davis was the only Australian in the field. The 28-year-old from Sydney set the course alight on Thursday with an 8-under 62. The former Australian Open winner faded from the leading pack with rounds of 70, 70 and 69 to reach 9-under and finish in a tie for 30th place.
Final Results
Sony Open
1. Grayson Murray -17
T2. Keegan Bradley -17
T2. Byeong Hun An -17
T4. Carl Yuan -16
T4. Russell Henley -16
6. JT Poston -15
Australian
T30. Cam Davis -9
Photo credit: Tracy Wilcox/PGA TOUR via Getty Images
