Wyndham Clark Speaks Out on Oakmont Exclusion: ‘I Feel Terrible’ – His Response and Future Plans

Wyndham Clark had a rough start at the British Open but bounced back to tie for fourth place, shooting a solid 65 at Royal Portrush. This performance came after a challenging major season where expectations ran high.

Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, faced scrutiny for his actions at last month’s U.S. Open at Oakmont. He reportedly damaged a locker there, leading to a ban from the course, expected compensation for the damages, and a request for a charity donation. “I feel terrible about what happened,” Clark admitted. He’s eager to mend his relationship with Oakmont, hoping to move past this incident.

This season has not been easy for him. He tied for 46th at the Masters, finished 50th at the PGA Championship, and missed the cut at the U.S. Open. Even at the Players Championship, he had to withdraw, contributing to his frustrations. Clark has been honest about struggling with his emotions on the course. He once threw a club in anger at the PGA Championship, pointing to the pressure he’s felt.

Experts suggest that mental health in sports is critical. Dr. John Habif, a sports psychologist, noted, “Athletes, like Clark, often face immense pressure. It’s vital they find productive ways to manage their feelings.”

Clark reflected on his challenges, saying, “I’ve been open about my mental shift. I’ve had a tough year, and I did some stupid things.” He believes these setbacks have awakened a stronger version of himself. “I want to show I’m not defined by these moments.”

His finish at the British Open was his best performance since tying for fifth at the Houston Open earlier this year. Clark started the year ranked sixth in the world but dropped to 28th by the time of the Open. He still aims for a spot on the U.S. Ryder Cup team, although it seems unlikely as he currently stands 22nd in the points.

Looking ahead, Clark remains hopeful. He knows he has the potential to compete well—the last few weeks showed improvements in his game. “I’m starting to play really good golf,” he noted. He believes he could still earn a captain’s pick for the Ryder Cup if he continues to play well in the upcoming tournaments.

As golfers like Clark navigate ups and downs, their experiences resonate with fans. They remind us that even top athletes face hurdles, but the key is learning and moving forward.



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