Wyndham Clark, the reigning 2023 U.S. Open champion, has been banned from Oakmont Country Club after a dramatic locker‑room meltdown following his missed cut at the 2025 U.S. Open.
Photos of a battered locker circulated widely online, prompting outrage among club member. What may have seemed an isolated incident has escalated into a full-blown disciplinary move by the prestigious Pennsylvania venue.
Despite issuing a sincere apology on tour –“I made a mistake that I deeply regret. I’m very sorry for what happened” – Oakmont has held firm. The club is bent on making an example of its world champion, underscoring that fame and talent do not place athletes above institutional rules.
Why the Ban Was Necessary
Oakmont Club President John Lynch did not mince words in a letter shared with members. He stated:
“Several of you have inquired about the situation involving Wyndham Clark and the steps being taken in response to his recent behavior. 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.”
Lynch emphasized that the decision reflects serious conversations with both Oakmont’s board and the USGA, highlighting how upset members were by the damage done to historic lockers. The move is a bold stance that contends even elite players must respect club sanctity.
“This decision will remain in effect unless formally reconsidered and approved by the Board,” Lynch added.
Conditions for Reinstatement
In the same letter, Lynch laid out clear, non-negotiable steps for Clark’s reinstatement:
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Full repayment for locker‑room damages.
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A meaningful charitable contribution, chosen by Oakmont’s board.
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Completion of anger management counseling or similar therapeutic sessions.
“Reinstatement would be contingent upon Mr. Clark fulfilling a number of specific conditions,” Lynch wrote, making it clear this isn’t a temporary slap on the wrist. It’s a structured plan aimed at accountability, and potential redemption.
A Pattern of Frustration?
This incident is not Clark’s first show of volatility on a major stage. In May, at the PGA Championship, he hurled a driver into signage–narrowly missing a volunteer, and later apologized:
“I promise to better the way I handle my frustrations on the course going forward…”
Oakmont’s decision is in part shaped by this pattern: multiple flare‑ups at two major championships in short succession, showing the club that this was not a one-off lapse.
Oakmont is set to host the U.S. Open again in 2033, and Clark has a 10‑year exemption as the 2023 champion. But Lynch’s letter freezes that privilege for now. Clark must earn his way back, quite literally, before stepping foot on the famously tough Oakmont turf.
From Clark’s standpoint, it’s a steep hill. At age 31, with his world ranking slipping and FedEx/Ryder Cup standings impacted, this ban adds another unpredictable hurdle.
Clark is currently competing in The Open Championship, sitting tied for 128th at five-over-par.
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