OAKMONT, Pa. — The prestigious Oakmont Country Club has reportedly banned reigning U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark after an incident involving damage to a historic locker during this year's tournament, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter.
The United States Golf Association (USGA) has declined to comment on the reports, but insiders confirm that Clark, who won the 2023 U.S. Open at Los Angeles Country Club, was involved in an altercation with a locker in Oakmont’s famed clubhouse. The locker, believed to be over a century old, was reportedly smashed during the incident, prompting club officials to take action.
The Incident: A Moment of Frustration
Eyewitnesses claim that Clark, who missed the cut at this year’s U.S. Open, was visibly frustrated after his second-round performance. "He slammed the locker door so hard that the hinges gave way, and the wood splintered," one club staffer recounted anonymously. The damage was significant enough that the locker may require full restoration.
Oakmont, known for its strict decorum and reverence for tradition, has a long history of upholding its rules with little tolerance for misconduct. The club has previously enforced bans for lesser infractions, including dress code violations and unauthorized photography.
Club Officials Take a Firm Stance
While neither Oakmont nor Clark’s representatives have issued an official statement, sources indicate that the club’s board convened an emergency meeting following the incident. "The decision was unanimous—Clark will not be welcome back at Oakmont," a club insider revealed.
Key factors in the decision included:
- The historical significance of the damaged locker, which dates back to the early 1900s
- Oakmont’s zero-tolerance policy for property damage
- The club’s reputation as one of golf’s most hallowed venues
Clark’s Response and Potential Fallout
Clark, who has not publicly addressed the incident, is said to have offered to pay for repairs. However, Oakmont’s leadership reportedly viewed the gesture as insufficient given the locker’s irreplaceable nature. "Money can’t buy back history," a club member remarked.
The ban could have broader implications for Clark’s relationship with the USGA and future U.S. Open venues. While Oakmont’s decision is independent of the USGA, the organization has historically deferred to host clubs on matters of player conduct.
A History of High-Profile Bans
Oakmont is no stranger to controversy. In 2016, the club made headlines when it briefly banned a spectator for heckling Phil Mickelson. Similarly, other historic clubs like Augusta National and Pine Valley have enforced strict disciplinary measures over the years.
However, a ban of this magnitude against a reigning major champion is rare. The last comparable incident involved John Daly, who was suspended by the PGA Tour in the 1990s for similar outbursts.
Conclusion: A Lesson in Tradition
While Clark’s frustration is understandable—missing the cut in a major is a tough pill to swallow—Oakmont’s response underscores the importance of respect for tradition in golf. "This isn’t just about a locker; it’s about preserving the integrity of the game," a longtime Oakmont member stated.
As the story develops, the golf world will be watching to see if Clark issues an apology or if Oakmont revisits its decision. For now, one of golf’s most storied clubs has sent a clear message: no player, regardless of stature, is above its rules.
The USGA, when pressed for comment, reiterated its stance: "Player conduct at host clubs is ultimately under their jurisdiction. We respect Oakmont’s decision-making process."
