Wyndham Clark suspended indefinitely from Oakmont Country Club after damaging his locker in a fit of rage. Clark’s last start before this week came at the U.S. Open last month, where he missed the cut. This incident was a watershed moment in his up-and-down season. High-level negotiations ensued among Oakmont officials, representatives from the United States Golf Association, and the club’s board. To achieve this goal, they reached the conclusion to adopt the ban.
The specific golfer you’re thinking about first drew blood when he publicly lamented his bad play at the U.S. Open. He incurred a double on the last hole of the second round, leading to him missing the cut by only one shot. Failing to execute the approach shot, Clark took out his frustration on his driver, tossing it in disgust. That tantrum resulted in the destruction of his locker room and sign adjacent to the tee box at the PGA Championship in May. That sign conveniently showcased one of his biggest national sponsors.
In a letter to club members, Oakmont Country Club President John Lynch confirmed the ban, stating, “This decision will remain in effect unless formally reconsidered and approved by the Board.” The club’s leadership were laser focused on the need to keep their club professionally run by its members and guests.
As backlash to his actions poured in, Clark made amends at the Travelers Championship the next week. He acknowledged the lapse in judgment, saying, “I made a mistake that I deeply regret. I’m very sorry for what happened. I’d like to move on, not only for myself but for Oakmont, for the USGA, and kind of focus on the rest of the year and things that come up.”
Sheesh it’s been an up and down season for Marquise Clark. He has only placed in the top 10 once in his 19 career professional starts on tour. Currently, he sits in 28th place in the Official World Golf Ranking. He’s trying to refocus his mind and body as he looks toward the next Open Championship, set for Portrush, Northern Ireland.
Reflecting on his career this year, Clark noted, “I’ve had a lot of highs and lows in my career, especially this year some lows.” He recognized that his behavior during recent tournaments was unacceptable, stating, “As professionals, we are expected to remain professional even when frustrated and I unfortunately let my emotions get the best of me.”
He further admitted that his actions were “uncalled for and completely inappropriate,” underscoring the need for self-improvement as he moves forward in his career.
Leave a Reply