Andrew Novak and Ben Griffin wrote their names into the history books on Sunday when they clinched the Zurich Classic of New Orleans title. This was the duo’s first-ever PGA Tour title, and both men will be delighted to finally get one in the bag. For one man in particular, the journey to this success has not been an easy one. Ben Griffin had to step away from golf at a point, and several years on, that move looks like a masterstroke following his first PGA Tour victory.
Why Griffin Stepped Away From the Game
Griffin was tipped to be a future star when he was a high school freshman. His golf journey took him from East Chapel Hill High School to the University of North Carolina, where he truly shone. He earned All-America Honorable Mentions in 2015 and 2017, All-America Scholar laurels in 2017 and 2018, and All-ACC plaudits both in 2015 and 2018.
He recorded one of the more remarkable finishes in North Carolina state tournament history when he chipped in on the second playoff hole at Pinehurst No. 6 to win the crown. In all, the 28-year-old won three individual titles at North Carolina and also broke the program record for career scoring average (72.02), a record once held by Davis Love III.
However, Griffin’s career began to hit the rocks in the spring of 2020 just when The Players Championship was about to start. Griffin had no idea that the event had been canceled after the first round due to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic. One year later, Griffin felt burnt out from accumulated stress from the demands of golf and the financial uncertainties he faced.
Griffin admitted he was constantly worried about how he was going to pay for his basic bills like rent and food and didn’t want to ask for handouts. Hence he decided to step away from golf to pursue a second career as a mortgage broker in his native North Carolina. The 28-year-old was determined to recharge his batteries but wasn’t sure if he wanted to return to golf at that time. However, he eventually decided to return after a hiatus that lasted for six months.
Griffin Returned Recharged and Ready
Griffin’s time off appeared to have paid off in some style. The 28-year-old has been in impressive form since rejoining the Korn Ferry Tour, finishing second in back-to-back events and recording a remarkable four top-10 finishes and seven top-25 finishes.
The 28-year old also admitted that the break gave him the opportunity to reset after he lost motivation and love for golf. Griffin returned recharged and ready and has now secured his first PGA Tour title and it appears that doing something completely different has given him a fresh headspace.
Main Photo Credit: © Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
