Wyndham Clark addresses backlash at U.S. Open

Wyndham Clark has spoken out about the crowd's negative reaction during his victorious U.S. Open campaign, acknowledging that his actions at last year's tournament led to significant scrutiny. Clark damaged two lockers in an outburst at Pittsburgh's Oakmont Country Club after missing the cut in 2025, an incident he admitted was "unacceptable."

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It was an unfortunate thing I did a year ago at the U.S. Open, and you know, it's brought some scrutiny to me. It's amazing what a year can do, right? And this is kind of my redemption tour, and hopefully I can win back the fans.

"It's amazing what a year can do, right? And this is kind of my redemption tour, and hopefully I can win back the fans," Clark told CBS News. While he anticipated some "chirps" from the crowd at Shinnecock Hills, he expressed bewilderment at the extent of the jeering, which continued even as he vied for his second major championship.

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I desecrated a very historical locker room, and that is unacceptable. But I'm surprised at the reaction I got at this U.S. Open. I knew I'd hear some chirps, but I didn't think people would cheer against me.

To cope with the hostility, Clark worked with his sports psychologist on a mental strategy. "Anytime I heard something negative, I would replace it with something positive," he explained. This approach helped him navigate the pressure, especially during his final round when he lost a significant lead. He recalled a crucial putt on the 16th hole, where he felt he was the only one to cheer, as a moment he aimed to "silence the crowd."

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Anytime I heard something negative, I would replace it with something positive, whether it's about myself, about my golf or even just anything, look around and smile at someone and just say 'All right, I'm going to win this with kindness and love.'

Despite the crowd's sentiment, Clark secured his second U.S. Open title, finishing one stroke ahead of Sam Burns. The victory was made more special by the surprise appearance of his father, Randall Clark, who had flown in from Colorado. Randall, a former professional tennis player, introduced Wyndham to golf, making the moment particularly poignant as it was the first time his father had witnessed him win in person.

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I mean, I was fumbling. I had a six-shot lead, and then it ended up being a one-shot lead.