Wyndham Clark has been accused of smashing two lockers at Oakmont following a frustrating U.S. Open week for the former champion, but Ian Poulter has defended him
Andrew Gamble Sports Trends Writer
22:17 ET, 18 Jun 2025Updated 22:17 ET, 18 Jun 2025
Ian Poulter is a LIV Golf star who also struggled at the U.S. Open(Image: Getty Images)
LIV Golf star Ian Poulter discussed wreaking “severe locker destruction” at the U.S. Open over the years after Wyndham Clark was accused of damage at Oakmont.
Former U.S. Open champion Clark has become embroiled in controversy over accusations of vandalism during last week’s tournament. The 2023 winner missed the cut by a single stroke after a tough round on the notoriously challenging course.
The tension was high at last week’s tournament, with players struggling to keep cool. Rory McIlroy was spotted demolishing a tee marker in frustration after a second-round drive, while Scottie Scheffler expressed his irritation in a practice session alongside his coach.
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Clark, who secured his major at Los Angeles Country Club two years ago, is now facing allegations on social media after images surfaced showing damaged lockers at the clubhouse. While some fans called for Clark to be suspended, Poulter has owned up to his own frustrations at the tournament.
“I have inflicted severe Locker destruction through the years at US Opens and paid my fines,” the Ryder Cup legend wrote on X. “Generally they have been our temporary build lockers.
“Not members lockers. Not that that’s an excuse. Generally it’s been when I’ve felt the USGA have pushed the limits over the edge.”
Poulter, who made 16 US Open appearances without breaking the top-10, was responding to his LIV Golf colleague Graeme McDowell, who originally posted: “This is minimal regards what I’ve seen other players do.”
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However, fans were disappointed with Clark’s behavior. One disgruntled fan posted on X: “This is embarrassing/bad look for Wyndham Clark. He should be punished with a fine or suspension.”
Another long-time Clark supporter chimed in: “I’ve long supported Wyndham Clark, I gave him the benefit of the doubt at the PGA Championship when he smashed the sign. But this is unacceptable. This is a suspension and fine at a minimum.”
At the PGA Championship last month, won by world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, Clark was caught on camera chucking his club into an ad board after a wayward tee shot.
Clark admitted his error and apologized for his actions.
“As professionals, we are expected to remain professional even when frustrated, and I unfortunately let my emotions get the better of me,” Clark said.
“My actions were uncalled for and completely inappropriate, making it clear that I have things that I need to work on.”
