Ben Griffin’s Historic Win at the 2023 World Wide Technology Championship
In an exciting display of skill and resilience, Ben Griffin has emerged as a force to be reckoned with on the PGA Tour. With his recent victory at the World Wide Technology Championship, he becomes one of only three players this season—alongside Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy—to claim three victories. Griffin’s extraordinary performance, particularly his nine-under-par 63 on the final day, solidified his standing as a breakout star this year, capturing the title by two shots.
Griffin’s win adds to his earlier successes at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans and the Charles Schwab Championship. His consistent play throughout the season has not only garnered him trophies but also significant financial rewards. For his efforts at the World Wide Technology Championship, Griffin took home a prize of $1.08 million from an overall purse of $6 million, marking another milestone in his burgeoning career.
The Tournament Landscape: A Crucial Time for Tour Players
Historically, a trip to Cabo San Lucas and the El Cardonal course at Diamante would feel like a luxury getaway for PGA professionals. However, with only three weeks remaining in the FedEx Cup Fall series, the stakes were incredibly high at this tournament. Players were keenly aware that these were some of their last opportunities to secure spots on the tour for the 2026 season. Finishing strong here could mean the difference between full status and conditional playing rights next year, adding an extra layer of pressure to the competition.
Chad Ramey and Sami Valimaki finished tied for second place, two strokes behind Griffin, and both made crucial moves up into the top 100 of FedEx Cup points. To put it into context, players ranked from 51 to 70 have already secured their status for the upcoming year; however, the quest for a spot in the first two signature events of 2026 remains competitive. Understanding this landscape is vital for players as they strategize their approach to the final events of the fall season.
El Cardonal: A Unique Venue on the PGA Tour
The World Wide Technology Championship at El Cardonal has gained recognition since it began hosting the tournament last year. While it often plays second fiddle to the more famous Dunes course at Diamante—ranked 47th among Golf Digest’s World’s 100 Greatest Courses—El Cardonal has its own charm. Notably, it is the first course designed by Tiger Woods and his TGR Design studio, showcasing a marriage of creativity and playability that Woods has become known for.
Opened in 2014, El Cardonal features breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, set against a backdrop of desert uplands. The course design allows for a variety of shots, with generous fairways that encourage players to engage with the course creatively. The design principles employed in El Cardonal draw parallels to Woods’ subsequent projects, showcasing a commitment to incorporating natural elements and promoting enjoyable play for golfers of all skill levels.
Technical Challenges and Opportunities
The course layout presents an array of technical challenges and opportunities for competitors. With seven holes running downhill, players face longer yardages on those holes while the shorter par fours typically play uphill. Each par five is reachable for the professionals, adding an extra dimension of excitement to their strategy. Especially as the season winds down, decisions made on course can be pivotal for lasting impressions going into the new year.
Notably, the back nine at El Cardonal demands precise play, featuring a series of visually striking holes that test players’ skills under pressure. The par-4 17th hole, perched at the highest point of the course, offers panoramic views that might distract players from their mission. Following this, the course closes with another dramatic challenge—a downhill par-5 finishing hole that has the potential to become a stage for thrilling eagle putts.
Prize Payout Breakdown
The World Wide Technology Championship not only serves as a showcase for talented players but also as a significant financial arena. Here’s a brief breakdown of the prize money awarded to players who made the cut in Cabo, showcasing how competitive performance translates into earnings on the PGA Tour.
- Win: Ben Griffin, -29/259 – $1.08 million
- T-2: Chad Ramey, -27/261 – $534,000
- T-2: Sami Valimaki, -27/261 – $534,000
- T-4: Garrick Higgo, -26/262 – $270,000
- T-4: Trevor Cone, -26/262 – $270,000
The prize pool reflects the high stakes that accompany professional golf, making every shot count not just for titles, but for financial stability as well. Players further down the leaderboard still manage to walk away with substantial rewards, easing the competitive pressures of life on tour.
Insights Into Ben Griffin’s Game
Ben Griffin’s remarkable journey continues to turn heads on the PGA Tour. Known for his steady composure and methodical approach, Griffin’s game is characterized by a combination of power and precision. He showcases an ability to read greens that is both insightful and strategic, leading to a performance that consistently earns him birdies.
His nine-birdie, one-bogey round at the World Wide Technology Championship not only demonstrates his scoring ability but also his capacity to bounce back from setbacks on the course. Each victory this season reflects his growth, giving golf enthusiasts a closer look at a player who is more than ready to compete against the sport’s elite.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Ben Griffin
With several wins under his belt this season, Griffin’s future appears bright. His recent achievements place him in a favorable position as he heads into the next season. Fans and commentators are keenly watching whether Griffin can maintain this trajectory and challenge the top-tier players consistently. The focus will undoubtedly shift toward his performance in the upcoming months as he prepares for the 2026 season.
The dynamic nature of professional golf means that successful consistency will provide Griffin not only with career prestige but potential long-term financial security. The unique challenges of the remaining tournaments will test his resolve and readiness to advance further in his career. Whether he can sustain his current form will be one of the stories to watch closely.
A Unique Time for Professional Golf
This season has been notable for many reasons, particularly in terms of competitive talent. Alongside Griffin’s prowess, the ongoing rivalry between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf has added an intriguing layer to the landscape. With players making critical decisions regarding their futures and affiliations, the upcoming seasons will be crucial for shaping the sport.
As the Tour navigates these changes, the spotlight remains on players like Griffin who are capable of carving their name into golf history. As supporters rally around these athletes, the forthcoming storylines promise to be compelling, filled with drama, triumph, and the pursuit of excellence.
Conclusion: Celebrating Ben Griffin’s Success
Ben Griffin’s ascension through the ranks of professional golf has been nothing short of remarkable. His achievements in the 2023 season serve as a testament to his dedication, talent, and resilience. As the PGA Tour heads into the final stretch of the fall series, Griffin’s recent victory adds another chapter to an inspiring narrative in sports. Golf enthusiasts will undoubtedly keep a close watch on his progress as he navigates the challenges and celebrates the victories yet to come.
