Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, has been banned from the prestigious Oakmont Country Club after a locker room outburst. The incident occurred last month after Clark missed the cut at the 2024 U.S. Open by a single stroke. In a letter to members, Oakmont president John Lynch confirmed the disciplinary action, stating Clark damaged his locker in a moment of frustration. The club is known for its strict standards and tradition.
A Fallout at a Storied Club
The outburst happened at Oakmont, a historic course outside Pittsburgh, even though the U.S. Open was held at Pinehurst No. 2 in North Carolina. Clark held a locker at the club due to his status as a past U.S. Open winner. While the specifics of the damage were not revealed, the club’s response was decisive.
The club’s president confirmed that “Mr. Clark will no longer be permitted on OCC property.” This decision was not made in isolation; it followed extensive discussions between the Oakmont Board of Directors and the United States Golf Association (USGA).
Oakmont’s reputation for upholding a strict code of conduct is well-known in the golf community. The club’s swift action reinforces its zero-tolerance policy, sending a clear message that such behavior is unacceptable, regardless of a player’s status.
A Narrow Path to Redemption
While the ban is indefinite, Oakmont has provided Wyndham Clark with a clear, albeit challenging, path to have his privileges reinstated. The club did not permanently close the door on the former champion, but it requires him to take significant steps to address his actions and make amends.
According to the letter sent to club members, Clark must meet three specific conditions before the ban can be lifted. These requirements are non-negotiable and reflect the seriousness with which the club views the incident.
- He must fully reimburse Oakmont Country Club for the cost of the damages to the locker.
- He is required to make a significant donation to a charity that has been approved by the Oakmont board.
- Clark must complete a course of counseling or anger management therapy to address his behavior.
Until all three of these conditions are met, Clark will not be welcome on the club’s grounds.
A Season Marked by Frustration and Outbursts
This incident at Oakmont is not the first time Clark’s temper has been in the spotlight this year. His on-course struggles have been accompanied by moments of visible frustration, creating a pattern of behavior that has drawn concern.
Back in May at the PGA Championship, Clark threw his driver in anger after a poor tee shot, striking and damaging a sponsor’s sign. He later issued a public apology, calling his actions “uncalled for and completely inappropriate.”
The pressure seemed to mount as he headed into the U.S. Open to defend his title. After a series of average finishes throughout the season, his early exit from the tournament was a major disappointment that ultimately led to the locker room incident and his subsequent ban.
Slipping Rankings and the Cost of Composure
The emotional turmoil appears to be linked to a noticeable decline in his performance on the course. After reaching a career high following his U.S. Open victory, Clark’s game has not been at the same level in 2025, leading to growing frustration.
His competitive struggles are reflected in the Official World Golf Ranking and his tournament results this season.
| Metric | Status |
|---|---|
| Official World Golf Ranking | Slipped to No. 28 |
| 2025 Season Starts | 19 |
| Top-10 Finishes | 1 |
This drop-off in form is significant for a player who was at the top of the sport just one year ago. The combination of poor results and public displays of anger has created a difficult period for the 30-year-old golfer.
A Public Apology Amid Private Consequences
Speaking to the media at the Travelers Championship shortly after the incident, Clark expressed his regret. He stated, “I made a mistake that I deeply regret,” and apologized for his actions. He also expressed a desire to move on and focus on the remainder of his golf season.
However, while his public apology was a necessary step, the firm stance taken by Oakmont demonstrates that private institutions have their own standards. The consequences of his actions have now moved beyond the PGA Tour and into the exclusive world of private golf clubs. Oakmont’s decision serves as a powerful reminder that in golf, a sport built on etiquette and integrity, character and conduct matter just as much as a player’s score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Wyndham Clark banned from Oakmont?
Wyndham Clark was banned from Oakmont Country Club after he damaged his locker in the clubhouse out of frustration. The incident occurred after he missed the cut at the 2024 U.S. Open.
Is the ban on Wyndham Clark permanent?
The ban is not necessarily permanent. Oakmont has provided three conditions he must meet for the ban to be lifted: paying for the damages, donating to a board-approved charity, and completing anger management or counseling.
Did this incident happen at the U.S. Open?
The U.S. Open was held at Pinehurst No. 2, but the locker room outburst happened at Oakmont Country Club in Pennsylvania. As a past U.S. Open champion, Clark had locker privileges at the historic club.
Has Wyndham Clark had other similar incidents?
Yes, earlier this year at the PGA Championship, Clark threw his driver in frustration and damaged a sponsor sign. He publicly apologized for that incident as well.
