Ben Griffin: From Desk Job to Stellar Golfer – A Journey of Resilience and Triumph

As we step into the world of professional golf, one story stands out amid the narratives of seasoned veterans and emerging talents alike: that of Ben Griffin. A name that has taken the golfing community by storm, Griffin’s remarkable journey—from a desk job as a mortgage loan officer to becoming a U.S. Open contender—captures the essence of perseverance, talent, and accidental serendipity. With his recent triumphs at prestigious tournaments, such as the Zurich Classic and the Charles Schwab Challenge, we delve into the life and career of this promising golfer who symbolizes hope and potential for the 2025 season.

The Spark That Ignited His Return

Born and raised in North Carolina, Griffin’s early passion for golf was evident as he navigated through junior circuits, often encountering stars like Scottie Scheffler. After a successful college career at the University of North Carolina—with one of the best scoring averages in the school’s history—Griffin turned pro in 2018. Yet, the journey was fraught with challenges; bouncing between the Canada, Latinoamerica, and Korn Ferry tours, success remained elusive for Griffin. Burnt out and frustrated after four failed attempts at the Latinoamerica Tour, he decided it was time for a significant change.

It was during this transition that Griffin found himself working for his father’s property management company, temporarily stepping away from golf. He embraced his role as a mortgage loan officer, illustrating a drastic shift in lifestyle. However, the echoes of his former life beckoned him back to the competitive world of golf. A pivotal moment came after he accidentally drove to a golf course instead of the office, igniting a longing for the game he had put on hold. This newfound clarity, coupled with an emotional passage from his late grandfather’s obituary, rekindled his desire to compete.

Embracing Change and Investing in Himself

The turning point in Griffin’s career wasn’t merely about returning to professional golf; it was about a fundamental shift in his mindset. With the support of Doug Sieg, the CEO of his main sponsor, Griffin committed to investing in himself and his game. He adopted a forward-thinking approach, believing in his capabilities while surrounding himself with the right resources. This included hiring a team, integrating a more rigorous training schedule, and focusing on nutrition and fitness. He resolved to prioritize hard work, establishing a routine that kept him both motivated and competitive.

In November 2021, Griffin’s hard work bore fruit as he tied for 29th at the Korn Ferry Tour’s Q-School, securing spots for the following year’s tour. This achievement marked the beginning of a gradual but steady ascent, leading to his promotion to the PGA Tour in 2023, where he displayed remarkable consistency.

The 2023 Rookie Season: Building Momentum

Griffin’s rookie season on the PGA Tour in 2023 was a whirlwind of experiences and accomplishments. He made an impressive 25 cuts in 37 starts, showcasing his consistency and resilience. Among his standout performances was a nail-biting finish at the Sanderson Farms Championship, where he made it into a five-man playoff. While he did not win, the experience elevated his confidence and validated his place in the competitive field.

Spring 2024 proved beneficial, with a remarkable T2 finish at the RBC Canadian Open, reinforcing the belief that Griffin was set to become a mainstay on the professional golfing circuit. Each round brought a greater understanding of his capabilities, setting the stage for the next significant leaps in his career.

The Cultural Shift in Training: Gaining the Edge

What sets Griffin apart is not only his natural talent but also the strategic train of thought behind his preparation. Under the guidance of swing coach James Oh, he adopted a structured schedule, fostering a focused approach to training. This routine kept him grounded, reducing the chaotic experience many golfers encounter on tour.

In addition to his training regimen, Griffin incorporated weight training to build strength—a decision inspired by the successes of strong major winners like Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson. Traveling with fitness trainer Derek Smidt, Griffin began to merge strength training with golfing precision, steadily improving his ball distance and accuracy.

Rising Through the Ranks: Victories and Recognition

The 2025 season unfolded as a defining moment for Griffin. His breakthrough victory at the Zurich Classic was a testament to his hard work and dedication, coming in the form of a winning putt from 35 feet on the penultimate hole. It marked his first title on the PGA Tour, achieved during his 90th Tour start. Shortly after, he showcased his prowess again by finishing in the top 10 at the PGA Championship and claiming his second win at the esteemed Charles Schwab Challenge.

This transformative period solidified Griffin’s status as an emerging talent in golf. Coming head-to-head with Scottie Scheffler at the Memorial served as further validation of his competitive spirit and skill. Each tournament experience contributed to his growing reputation, culminating in three straight top 10 finishes as his confidence soared.

Preparing for the U.S. Open: Mindset and Goals

As the U.S. Open approached, Griffin stood at the pinnacle of his journey, gearing up for his first appearance at this prestigious event. His focus was sharper than ever, fueled by a consistent practice regimen and rapid improvements in performance. "I’ve checked a lot of these boxes now, but I have to continue to keep the pedal down," he asserted, acknowledging the importance of maintaining momentum.

With a newfound fan base following him not just for his impressive play but also for his engaging social media presence—over 114,000 TikTok followers—Griffin’s journey resonated with many aspiring golfers. His story of triumph amidst adversity reminded fans that resilience and hard work can pay off.

The Personal Insights: Balance and Support

Griffin’s success extended beyond the golf course. He often credits his family, particularly his parents, for their unwavering support throughout his journey. The sacrifices they made fueled his determination to excel, even during challenging periods. While he embraces the spotlight, Griffin remains grounded, valuing personal relationships and maintaining a balanced perspective.

Drawing from the wisdom of past challenges and victories, Griffin’s mindset continually emphasizes positivity. He believes that almost every player experiences setbacks before realizing success, leading him to view strong finishes as mini-wins. Age has been on his side, allowing him the time to make meaningful adjustments that have propelled his career forward.

The Future: Ryder Cup Aspirations

As the 2025 season progresses, Ben Griffin isn’t just focusing on immediate successes; he’s also setting his sights on long-term goals, such as potentially making the Ryder Cup team. With his current rank in the top 20 of the World Golf Rankings and impressive performances under his belt, the possibility of competing on an international stage for his country becomes increasingly tangible.

The coming months will be crucial, and Griffin remains dedicated to refining his skills further, demonstrating that he is more than capable of holding his own on golf’s biggest stages. If the U.S. Open is a window into his future, fans can expect many more thrilling feats from this prodigious player.

Conclusion: A Journey of Inspiration and Resilience

Ben Griffin’s journey in golf epitomizes what it means to blend passion with purpose. His emergence as a top player in the PGA Tour showcases not only his talent but the depth of character found in overcoming adversity. From stepping away from the sport to piling on the hard work necessary for success, his story is a beacon of hope for many aspiring golfers around the world.

As he prepares for the trials and tribulations of the U.S. Open, fans will be eagerly watching, expecting to see not just a player, but a symbol of perseverance and excellence in the world of golf.

In this article, we explored the remarkable trajectory of Ben Griffin. From starting a career in golf that transitioned into a corporate job, only to return even stronger, Griffin inspires the world of sports with his resilience and unwavering determination. This story of transformation not only highlights the power of dedication but also serves as a reminder of the personal journey every athlete undertakes. Keep your eyes on this talented golfer as he continues to break barriers and redefine success on the greens.