Popular golf influencer Paige Spiranac has come to the defense of U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark, who faced heavy criticism and heckling during his recent victory at Shinnecock Hills. Spiranac, who has known Clark since he was 12, argued that the negative reaction is unwarranted.
Spiranac Questions the Hate
In a series of posts on X, Spiranac expressed confusion over the backlash. “The hate for Wyndham Clark doesn’t make sense to me,” she wrote. “People complain constantly that golfers are boring and show no emotion. But then you have someone who has a fiery, competitive spirit and that’s also a problem.” She acknowledged the need for a villain in sports but said “beating people down for every little mistake especially after they took accountability is just tiresome.”
When one fan countered that Clark’s behavior goes beyond competitiveness, Spiranac revealed her long history with him. “I’ve known him since he was 12. I’ve never seen that side of him in person,” she replied. “It’s just crazy people can make such a snap judgment about someone without ever meeting them.”
Clark’s Controversies and Apologies
Clark’s combative personality has rubbed many fans the wrong way. During the RBC Canadian Open last month, he wore a Team USA hockey jersey in Toronto, drawing boos. He later said he “loved the banter” but admitted it “maybe crossed the line on 18” when fans yelled during his backswing. He felt particularly bad for playing partner Bud Cauley, whose chances were affected.
At the 2025 U.S. Open, Clark missed the cut and took his frustrations out on the locker room at Oakmont, resulting in a ban and a fine. He apologized and paid for damages. After his 2026 win, he reiterated his regret: “I did some unfortunate things last year that I really regret, and I’ve said sorry multiple times, and I’m still sorry. So, hopefully, I can win you guys over eventually.”
Clark Explains Baker Mayfield Beef
After his victory, Clark finally addressed a decade-old mystery: why he tweeted “I hate Baker Mayfield” in 2016. On the Barstool Sports podcast Pardon My Take, he revealed, “My girlfriend at the time cheated on me with Baker Mayfield.” But he added, “I am actually a Baker fan now. I think he’s a homie.” Clark explained he no longer blames Mayfield, saying, “That’s your initial response, ‘screw that guy.’ But really, it’s screw the … you know.”
