Wyndham Clark banned from Oakmont after US Open outburst - 'I made a mistake'

Wyndham Clark has been handed an indefinite ban by Oakmont Country Club following an incident in which he damaged lockers at the recent US Open venue.

The 2023 US Open champion came under fire after a fit of anger in Pittsburgh, where he finished at eight-over-par and missed the cut. Photos circulated online showing damage to two locker doors, with Clark being blamed.

The 31-year-old admitted his responsibility the following week at the Travelers Championship, offering an apology for his behaviour. When quizzed about the incident at the Scottish Open last week, he said: "Yeah, I mean, I made a mistake in a moment of rage with, you know, a bad year and everything coming together.

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"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."

However, ahead of this week's Open Championship at Royal Portrush, Clark was notified that he has been indefinitely suspended by Oakmont, which is set to host the US Open again in 2033.

Golf Digest obtained a letter from Oakmont president John Lynch to members confirming not only the suspension but also outlining the requirements for the world No.28 to regain access, including a charitable contribution and completing counselling or anger management programmes.

The letter said: "Several of you have inquired about the situation involving Wyndham Clark and the steps being taken in response to his recent behaviour. Following multiple discussions with the USGA and the OCC Board, a decision has been made that Mr. Clark will no longer be permitted on OCC property.

"This decision will remain in effect unless formally reconsidered and approved by the board. Reinstatement would be contingent upon Mr. Clark fulfilling a number of specific conditions, including full repayment for damages, a meaningful contribution to a charity of the board's choosing, and the successful completion of counseling and/or anger management sessions. Thank you for your understanding and continued support."

The Oakmont incident wasn't his first emotional outburst this season. He also received criticism during May's PGA Championship at Quail Hollow, where he hurled his driver in frustration and damaged signage, almost hitting a nearby marshal.

He subsequently issued an apology on social media, which read: "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."

Clark has had a challenging season, with only one top-10 finish in 19 events. He will be hoping for improved luck when he tees off at Royal Portrush alongside Tom Hoge and Corey Conners at 10.20am on Thursday.