LOS CABOS, Mexico (AP) — Ben Griffin sidestepped the errors that hindered his two rivals Sunday, sinking three lengthy birdie putts for a 9-under 63 to secure the World Wide Technology Championship, marking his third PGA Tour victory of the season.
Griffin’s two-putt birdie on the par-5 18th at El Cardonal at Diamante sealed a two-stroke triumph. He now shares the spotlight with Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy as the only golfers boasting at least three wins, including Griffin’s team victory in New Orleans.
Griffin, competing for the second time since his Ryder Cup debut, unleashed a streak of five consecutive birdies from No. 8 onwards. This included a 40-foot putt on the par-3 11th to draw level, a 25-foot putt on the 12th to snatch the lead, and another 25-foot putt on the par-3 16th that effectively sealed the deal.
Notably, he birdied all four of the par 3s.
“After securing some early birdies, I consciously pushed myself harder than in recent weeks when in contention, aiming to maintain momentum,” Griffin recounted. “Fortunately, the putter became hot, sinking numerous putts on the back nine. It was a thrilling experience navigating the pressure down the stretch and managing to fend off the competition. Successfully sinking a couple down the stretch was satisfying.”
Griffin ascends to a career-high No. 9 in the world rankings.
Sami Valimaki (64) and Chad Ramey (65) shared second place, earning a valuable consolation. Valimaki began the week at No. 103 in the FedEx Cup standings and has now climbed to No. 76, guaranteeing his full card for the upcoming year. Ramey improved from No. 123 to No. 89, likely ensuring he retains his card.
Only two tournaments remain before the top 100 in the FedEx Cup standings solidify their full status for 2026.
“My sole objective for these past three tournaments was to secure playing rights for the following year, and I believe this finish has effectively achieved that,” Valimaki stated.
Griffin’s primary challenge arose from Garrick Higgo and Carson Young, who jointly led heading into the back nine on another day characterized by minimal wind.
Higgo’s challenge unraveled when his tee shot on No. 12 landed in a bush, compelling him to take a penalty for an unplayable lie, resulting in a double bogey. He carded a 68, finishing three shots behind.
Young converted a 15-foot birdie putt on the 12th, drawing level with Griffin at 27 under.
However, his approach on the 13th veered left, descending a slope, crossing a cart path, and settling in the native area. He made bogey, followed by an ordinary pitch on the par-5 14th that denied him a favorable birdie opportunity, and then three-putted for bogey on the 15th. He finished with a 68, tying for sixth.
Griffin encountered no such setbacks, save for a three-putt bogey on the fifth hole. He remained steadfast from that point onwards, concluding at 29-under 259.
His year is far from over, with his upcoming marriage to Dana Myeroff next month.
“It’s been an incredible year, securing three wins and getting married, it’s hard to top that,” Griffin exclaimed.
Higgo advanced to No. 52 in the FedEx Cup standings, guaranteeing his participation in the Pebble Beach and Riviera events early next season, both of which are $20 million signature events. He has consistently finished no worse than a tie for seventh in his four appearances during the FedEx Cup Fall.
“There have been many positives,” Higgo commented. “I’ve been in contention in the last four tournaments, so I intend to maintain my current approach.”
