American golfer Wyndham Clark has been banned from Oakmont Country Club due to incidents surrounding the 2023 US Open. The decision follows reports of damage to the club’s locker room during the tournament, with the club’s president, John Lynch, informing members about the actions taken against Clark.
In a letter obtained by Golf Digest, Lynch stated, “Several of you have inquired about the situation involving Wyndham Clark and the steps being taken in response to his recent behavior.” The letter further detailed that the club, after discussions with the United States Golf Association (USGA) and the Oakmont Board, determined Clark would no longer be permitted on club property. This ban will remain unless the Board approves a formal reconsideration.
Reinstatement of Clark’s membership hinges on several conditions. He must fully repay for damages incurred, make a significant contribution to a charity selected by the Board, and successfully complete counseling or anger management sessions. These measures underscore the seriousness of the club’s response to what they termed his “recent behavior.”
The incident at Oakmont unfolded after a challenging US Open where only one player, J.J. Spaun, finished under par. Clark, the defending champion, struggled throughout the tournament and ultimately missed the cut, finishing at 8-over par. Following his performance, he faced criticism on social media regarding the reported damage to the locker room.
At the Travelers Championship in Connecticut a week later, Clark expressed remorse for his actions. “I’ve had a lot of highs and lows in my career, especially this year, some lows. I made a mistake that I deeply regret. I’m very sorry for what happened,” he told reporters. Clark emphasized his desire to move forward positively, focusing on his goals for the rest of the year, including aspirations for the Ryder Cup and improving his position in the FedEx Cup standings.
The incident at Oakmont is not isolated; it reflects a broader trend of frustration among players during the tournament. Many competitors exhibited visible signs of anger, with instances of club throwing and cursing noted as they navigated the demanding course.
Oakmont Country Club is slated to host the US Open again in 2033. Clark will retain an exception to qualify for that tournament due to his victory in 2023. The unfolding situation raises questions about conduct and accountability in professional sports, particularly in high-stakes environments like major golf championships.
CNN has reached out to both Oakmont Country Club and the USGA for further comments on this matter.
