Ben Griffin: The Rise of a PGA Tour Sensation and His Unique Sunglass Story

By: Josh Schrock
Date: June 1, 2025

Ben Griffin has emerged as one of the most compelling stories on the PGA Tour in 2025. The 29-year-old golfer, credited with six top-10 finishes this season, has captivated fans not only for his impressive performance but also for his remarkable journey back to professional golf after stepping away for a brief period to work as a mortgage loan officer. This year, Griffin has claimed victories at the highly coveted Zurich Classic of New Orleans and the recent Charles Schwab Challenge, solidifying his presence on the leaderboards and in the hearts of golf enthusiasts.

A Comeback Story Worth Telling

Griffin’s story is one of resilience and determination. Following a hiatus from golf, he realized shortly after stepping away that his passion for the game was unquenchable. His triumphant return has seen him consistently place among the elite in tournaments, and many fans are eager to understand what fuels his fervor. As he prepared for the Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village, Griffin found himself just a shot off the lead, proving that he is not just a flash in the pan but a serious contender for top honors in professional golf.

The Mystery of the Aviator Sunglasses

While Griffin’s on-field talent is undeniable, it’s his choice of attire, specifically his signature aviator sunglasses, that has piqued curiosity among fans and analysts alike. Some have speculated that this is merely a fashion statement or a way to enhance his style. However, the reality behind Griffin’s sunglasses is far more thoughtful and relevant to his gameplay on the course.

Understanding Vision Challenges

In a candid moment, Griffin shared the real reason behind his eyewear: his struggle with vision issues. He revealed that he experiences "floaters"—small shapes that appear in his field of vision due to imperfections in the eye. According to the University of Miami’s Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, floaters can manifest as spots, strings, or dark specks that move as the eye shifts. Griffin’s condition stems from an early diagnosis where doctors informed him that his retina was starting to detach.

A Vital Surgical Intervention

To further understand the gravity of Griffin’s situation, he had eight retinal holes in both eyes. By undergoing laser surgery, Griffin was able to prevent potential vision loss that could have occurred within months if left untreated. The surgery maintained his vision but did not eliminate the floaters entirely, making his choice to wear sunglasses more than a style choice; it’s a crucial part of his gameplay comfort.

The Benefits of Sunglasses on the Course

Griffin elaborated on how wearing sunglasses significantly improves his golfing experience, stating, “When it’s really bright out and I’m not wearing the sunglasses, I see black stuff everywhere.” By wearing shades, the darkness they provide helps reduce the visibility of floaters, allowing him to concentrate better on the game. His eyewear of choice, the Uswing Mojing glasses, are engineered to assist golfers, particularly in reading greens, enhancing contrast, and fine-tuning accuracy.

The Science-Backed Sunglass Design

The Uswing brand gained recognition following an encounter between pro golfer Phil Mickelson and an amateur, Warren Fong, during a pro-am in Macau. The spectacles have reportedly aided in improving the assessment of putting greens, which is critical in making accurate shots. Griffin endorses their scientifically based design, affirming, “I think it’s 100 percent true” when referring to the glasses’ efficacy. The ability to perceive subtle changes in grain or contours on the green gives players like Griffin a competitive edge.

Fan Interaction and Personal Style

As Griffin’s popularity continues to soar, so does his fan base. Acknowledging this, he stated, “I guess I’m getting to the point where I have more and more fans, and people like it, so I’m not going to stop wearing ’em, that’s for sure.” His commitment to the sunglasses has evolved into a personal brand, further defining his unique identity on the tour.

The Impact on His Game

Griffin’s eye condition may have posed a significant challenge, but he has transformed it into a differentiator that sets him apart from other players. His perspective offers valuable insight for both him and his followers. Griffin demonstrates that overcoming obstacles can lead to unexpected advantages, something aspiring golfers and fans alike can take to heart as they follow his journey through the PGA Tour.

Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead

Ben Griffin’s ascent in the world of professional golf is certainly one to watch. With his extraordinary talent, resilience, and the distinctive trait of his sunglasses, he continues to make waves on the PGA Tour. As he competes at high levels, one can only anticipate how his story will develop in the coming years. Whether it’s about golf or overcoming personal challenges, Griffin serves as an inspiring figure for fans and aspiring athletes everywhere. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of one’s passion, making him a prominent name in golf for seasons to come.