Griffin's Hot Streak Continues at Muirfield Village
Ben Griffin has carried his momentum from a recent victory at the Charles Schwab Challenge into the 2025 Memorial Tournament presented by Workday, held at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio. Fresh off his first individual PGA Tour win just five days prior, Griffin fired an impressive 7-under 65 in the opening round on May 29, taking the clubhouse lead. Despite hitting two shots into the water, Griffin's aggressive play and birdie-heavy performance shone through on a course known for its punishing rough, often compared to U.S. Open conditions.
Only 13 players managed to break par in the first round at Muirfield Village, highlighting the difficulty of the layout. Griffin's round included birdies on each of the last three holes (Nos. 16-18), a feat unmatched by any other player in the field. He also led in key statistical categories, such as Strokes Gained: Around the Green with 2.560 and Strokes Gained: Putting with 3.843, showcasing his all-around game.
Challenges and Competitors Lurk Behind Griffin
While Griffin holds the lead, the field remains tightly contested with top players like Scottie Scheffler and Collin Morikawa in striking distance. Morikawa, sitting at 5-under, posted the best approach play of the round with a Strokes Gained: Approach of 4.3, positioning him as a significant threat. Scheffler, the world number one, ultimately defended his title at the Memorial, holding off Griffin to claim his 16th career PGA Tour victory on June 1, joining Tiger Woods as the only players to defend titles at this prestigious event.
Griffin's journey wasn't without hiccups, as he showed vulnerability during later rounds with bogeys on holes 9, 10, and 11 on Saturday, narrowing his lead over competitors like Nick Taylor. Additionally, posts found on X noted his unique style, with many commenting on his consistent use of sunglasses due to a vision issue involving floaters, a personal challenge he has adapted to over the past year.
Impact of Griffin's Performance on PGA Tour Standings
Griffin's exceptional start at the Memorial Tournament further solidifies his remarkable 2025 season. With two wins and six top-10 finishes, including a T8 at the PGA Championship, he has climbed to fifth in the FedExCup standings, marking a breakout year for the UNC alumnus. His ability to perform under pressure, even after mishaps like water hazards, demonstrates a resilience that has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike.
The Memorial Tournament, boasting a $20 million purse with $4 million for the winner, underscores the high stakes of Griffin's performance. Although Scheffler ultimately clinched the title, Griffin's early dominance and statistical leadership in the opening round have cemented his status as a rising star on the PGA Tour, setting the stage for future showdowns with golf's elite.