Wyndham Clark addresses backlash at U.S. Open

When Wyndham Clark sank a short putt to win his second U.S. Open on Sunday, the crowd at Shinnecock Hills on Long Island finally swung in his favor. Most of the weekend, he was goaded and jeered by onlookers who hadn't yet forgiven him for an incident at last year's U.S. Open, when he damaged two lockers in an outburst at Pittsburgh's Oakmont Country Club after missing the cut. "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," Clark said. "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." Though he wasn't totally surprised by the initial backlash, he was bewildered at how it carried into this year. "I desecrated a very historical locker room, and that is unacceptable," he added. "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." Wyndham Clark of the United States celebrates victory with the trophy after the final round of the 126th U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club, Southampton, N.Y., June 21, 2026. Erick W. Rasco/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images Clark wasn't unprepared for the reaction, telling CBS News he spoke to his sports psychologist and came up with a plan. …