Former US Open champion Wyndham Clark has been indefinitely banned from Oakmont Country Club after he caused extensive damage to lockers in the clubhouse during this year’s Championship
Rory McIlroy’s past comments speak volumes(Image: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Wyndham Clark is facing serious consequences after Rory McIlroy’s previous remarks resurfaced following his indefinite suspension from Oakmont Country Club. In an unexpected development, the former US Open winner was banned after a temper-fuelled episode during this year’s tournament, which took place at the famed Pennsylvania course.
After failing to make the cut by just one stroke, Clark reportedly vandalised several lockers in a fit of anger, sparking an official inquiry. Images of the damage quickly spread online, igniting a public debate about sportsmanship in golf.
Previous comments made by McIlroy – who, it’s fair to say, is no stranger to a tantrum on the course – seemed especially pointed. Commenting on Patton Kizzire’s emotional outburst at the Valspar Championship in March – where the American booted his putter after missing a short putt – the Northern Irishman had said: “It can be relatable, but at the same time, you want to try to set a proper example.
“Like you don’t want – you don’t want 10-year-old kids punting their putters across the green every time they miss a putt.”
With Oakmont slated to hold the US Open in 2033, Clark may now miss future top-tier competitions. At the Travelers Championship in June, he took accountability and offered an apology for his outburst.
When asked about the situation during the Scottish Open, he responded: “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.”
Wyndham Clark has been indefinitely banned from Oakmont Country Club
Oakmont president John Lynch shared a statement with Golf Digest, confirming Clark’s ban and calling his conduct both “unacceptable” and “damaging to the integrity of the sport.”
To re-enter the club, Clark must cover repair costs, contribute to charity, and complete either anger management or counselling. The rare decision to discipline such a high-profile player – a recent Ryder Cup participant – highlights the sport’s increased attention to decorum under mounting pressure.
Clark also drew heat earlier this season at the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, where he angrily threw his driver and broke signage, nearly striking an official.
Wyndham Clark apologised after damaging lockers in anger at Oakmont(Image: X: @Cam_Jourdan)
He later issued a social media apology: “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.”
