During the second round of the 2024 US Open at Oakmont, many pre-tournament favorites, including World No.1 Scottie Scheffler, defending champion Bryson DeChambeau, and Rory McIlroy, struggled with the challenging course. Meanwhile, Ben Griffin distinguished himself by making tournament golf appear effortless, showcasing his resilience and recent strong form. Griffin’s remarkable PGA Tour comeback story has captured attention as he rose steadily up the leaderboard amid tough competition.
Ben Griffin’s Recent Success Leading Into Oakmont
Griffin arrived at the US Open following a series of impressive finishes, including a victory at the Charles Schwab Challenge, a runner-up result behind Scottie Scheffler at the Memorial Tournament, and a tied eighth place at the PGA Championship. Prior to this streak, he secured his first PGA Tour win alongside Andrew Novak at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans. This string of high-level performances has dramatically changed the narrative of his career.
A Difficult Beginning and a Break from Professional Golf
Turning professional in 2018 after an accomplished amateur career, Griffin initially played on the PGA Tour Canada. In July of that year, he claimed his first professional title at the Staal Foundation Open. However, consistent success eluded him afterward, with multiple missed cuts on the PGA Tour Canada, PGA Tour Latinoamerica, and Korn Ferry Tour. By 2021, financial pressures and lack of progress forced Griffin to step away from golf, choosing instead to work as a mortgage loan officer.
Reflecting on this period, Griffin shared with Global Golf Post:
When I was working I never had any intention of going back. I was done. Mentally, I was out of it completely. I wanted to live a normal life.
—Ben Griffin, PGA Tour Golfer
The Pivotal Moment That Inspired His Return
Earlier in 2021, Griffin played nine holes at Sea Island with businessman Doug Sieg, who was considering sponsoring a professional golfer. Although Griffin initially declined, Sieg’s repeated encouragement and a fortuitous wrong turn leading Griffin to the golf course instead of his office contributed to his decision to resume his career. A strong showing in a member-guest event further motivated him to return to competitive golf, rejoining the Korn Ferry Tour in 2022.
The Dramatic Turnaround on the Korn Ferry and PGA Tours
Griffin wasted no time making an impact upon his comeback. In 2022, he recorded seven top-10 finishes, including three runner-up results, showcasing a remarkable transformation from his earlier struggles. By August of that year, he had earned his PGA Tour card, which he has maintained ever since. His ongoing success propelled him into the world’s top 100 players by January 2023, climbing to 15th place before the Oakmont Major.
The Implications of Griffin’s Career Resurgence
Griffin’s return to top-level golf not only highlights his personal perseverance but also signals a significant shift for his professional future. With his US Open performance, he has positioned himself as a serious contender for future Majors and is now under consideration for the US Ryder Cup team, possibly securing an automatic selection if his form continues. Beyond his on-course achievements, Griffin’s earnings have soared, nearing $14 million on the PGA Tour, addressing the financial challenges that once made him quit the game.
Ben Griffin’s Story: A Testament to Determination and Opportunity
Ben Griffin’s journey from walking away from professional golf to competing among the sport’s elite at the US Open is a testament to resilience amid adversity. His remarkable PGA Tour comeback story underscores how second chances, timely support, and renewed focus can reshape a career. As the golfing world watches, Griffin’s next steps could solidify his place among the game’s rising stars and inspire others facing setbacks in their pursuits.