Wyndham Clark has received an indefinite suspension from Oakmont Country Club after he was involved in an incident that resulted in damage to lockers at the prestigious US Open venue. The 2023 champion faced criticism following an outburst in Pittsburgh, where his eight-over-par performance led to him missing the cut.
The 31-year-old golfer acknowledged his actions the next week during the Travellers Championship and issued an apology for his conduct. Speaking about the episode at the Scottish Open last week, he confessed: “Yeah, I mean, I made a mistake in a moment of rage with, you know, a bad year and everything coming together. And it just was more than anything a good wake-up call for me to say, ‘Hey, you know what, let’s get back on track and things aren’t that bad.’
“I live a great life and I’m not that far off from playing good golf, so I feel like I’ve turned a page and we’re now maybe on the right track of playing some good golf.”
As the Open Championship at Royal Portrush looms this week, Clark was informed about his indefinite ban by Oakmont, which is poised to host another US Open in 2033.
Golf Digest revealed that they had seen a letter from Oakmont president John Lynch to club members. The letter confirmed the suspension and detailed the conditions for Clark, currently ranked world No. 28, to be reinstated. These include making a charitable donation and undergoing counselling or anger management courses.
The letter stated: “Several of you have inquired about the situation involving Wyndham Clark and the steps being taken in response to his recent behaviour. Following multiple discussions with the USGA and the OCC Board, a decision has been made that Mr. Clark will no longer be permitted on OCC property.
“This decision will remain in effect unless formally reconsidered and approved by the board. Reinstatement would be contingent upon Mr. Clark fulfilling a number of specific conditions, including full repayment for damages, a meaningful contribution to a charity of the board’s choosing, and the successful completion of counseling and/or anger management sessions. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.”
Clark faced backlash earlier this season for his conduct at the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow. There, his temper flared as he threw his driver, damaging signage and narrowly missing a marshal.
He took to social media to express his regret, stating: “I would like to sincerely apologise for my behaviour yesterday on hole 16. As professionals, we are expected to remain professional even when frustrated and I unfortunately let my emotions get the best of me.
“My actions were uncalled for and completely inappropriate, making it clear that I have things I need to work on. I hold myself to a high standard, trying to always play for something bigger than myself.
“I fell short of those standards. For that I am truly sorry. I promise to better the way I handle my frustrations on the course going forward, and hope you all can forgive me in due time.”
Clark has endured a difficult season, with just one top-10 finish in 19 events.
He will be hoping for better fortune when he tees off at Royal Portrush alongside Tom Hoge and Corey Conners at 10.20am on Thursday.
This article first appeared on Mirror US.