Is Grayson Murray’s Fiancee, Christina Ritchie, a Golfer?

On May 25, the golf world woke up to the tragic news of Grayson Murray’s passing. On Friday, a day before his sudden demise, the PGA Tour pro had withdrawn from the Charles Schwab Challenge, citing illness as the reason. Grayson Murray’s life serves as a story of hope, determination, and faith. Murray had seen many ups and downs throughout his life. From a devastating scooter accident to battling alcoholism, anxiety, and depression, Murray remained steadfast and chose to put all his faith in the Almighty. During his times of struggle, one of the people who stuck by his side was his fiancee, Christina Richie.

The two first crossed paths in 2021 during the American Express in Palm Springs Beach, Florida, and got engaged in December 2023. And just a month ago at Augusta National, Richie, and Murray were seen sharing some blissful moments with each other during the par-3 contest. Christina wanted to make Murray proud on the Augusta greens and delivered performances that garnered spectators’ attention. It prompted the community’s interest in finding out if she was a professional golfer.

This question might have been circling the fans’ minds ever since she managed to reach the green, even on the island hole. Her successful putts added to the enticement. The golfer’s fiancé made a stellar and lengthy putt. Murray smiled and pumped his fist when the ball dropped in the hole, and then the couple shared a kiss. Despite Christina maintaining a private life, it is evident that she has a passion for golf and has been deeply involved with the sport throughout her life. She is not a professional golfer, but rather a keen one!

Not only that, Christina has also been the reason for Murray’s presence at the Augusta National. In January, after a five-year wait, Murray finally secured victory at a PGA Tour event held at Waialae Country Club. Following his well-deserved victory, the two-time PGA Tour winner dedicated his win to his fiancee and God by saying, “My fiancee changed my life; Jesus Christ changed my life.”

How did Christina help Murray through dark times?

Murray started his professional career in 2017 and won one event the same year. However, that was the same time he encountered a setback in his life in the form of alcoholism. However, the PGA Tour pro chose to take the reins of his life back into his hands and started to work on himself. Although it was an arduous journey, Murray’s second victory at the Sony Open meant a lot for the PGA Tour pro, as it was hard-earned after sailing through the troubles of life.

During the Sony Open Hawaii, Murray shared about his sobriety journey and stated, “I’m over eight months sober now.” He then thanked his family, fiancee, and loved ones for their unconditional support. “I have a beautiful fiancée that I love so much and who is so supportive of me, and my parents are so supportive of me.”

As he managed to overcome his shortcomings throughout his life with the help of God and his fiancee, in December 2023, Murray chose to pop the question to his then-girlfriend. In a now-deleted post, Murray shared his elation and shared, “Easiest decision of my life. I love you so much, babe. I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with you. God is so Great.”

The golf community has come together to mourn the loss of the 30-year-old golfer. The PGA Tour Commissioner, Jay Monahan, came forward, offered his condolences, and said, “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.” 

Murray chose to persevere through all odds and never gave up. His return to golf had been one of the truly momentous moments of his life. Understanding the importance of it, in the wake of his passing, his parents wanted to keep their son’s essence alive. They asked Jay Monahan to continue with the tournament, as the PGA Tour Commissioner stated, “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 golf world has lost not only an exceptional athlete but also a gem of a human being. Murray will forever be remembered as the golfer who triumphed over every adversity like a lion emerging from the storm. So long, Murray.