Ben Griffin’s journey to the Ryder Cup is a testament to perseverance and self-belief. Just four years ago, Griffin was working as a mortgage loan officer, a far cry from competing in golf’s prestigious international competition. However, through unexpected turns and a renewed passion for the sport, he is now a two-time PGA Tour winner and ranked 11th in the world.
Griffin’s story began during his childhood, where he developed his golf skills in the aftermath of his family’s financial struggles. With the downturn in the real estate market in 2008, his family lost their home and country club membership, but he found opportunities to play at the University of North Carolina’s Finley Golf Course. His talent was apparent as he competed against notable players like Scottie Scheffler and Sam Burns in junior golf, achieving significant successes during his time at North Carolina.
However, the professional path proved challenging. After a taxing spell in the Korn Ferry Tour and the pressures of mini-tours compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic, Griffin found himself burned out and stepping away from competitive golf to take a more conventional job. His return to the sport came by chance, sparked by a timely invitation to a member-guest event and a connection with a financial backer, which allowed him to chase his dreams once more.
Players like Scottie Scheffler, who have long recognized Griffin’s potential, see his transition from mortgage loan officer to Ryder Cup player as a testament to his enduring talent and determination. Griffin himself notes the importance of realism, discipline, and the right support, emphasizing that pursuing dreams requires both self-belief and making wise choices along the way.
Griffin’s story is a beacon to golfers and dreamers alike, illustrating that with motivation, supportive resources, and self-confidence, reaching the heights of one’s aspirations is within reach. As he now stands among America’s elite golfers, wearing the red, white, and blue of Team USA, his journey from real estate to the Ryder Cup is a remarkable example of determination and the resilience of the human spirit.