Golf legend turns on U.S. Open crowd for Wyndham | Golf News

Dame Laura Davies expressed her disgust at the treatment Wyndham Clark endured from the U.S. Open crowd as he held on to declare victory at Shinnecock Hills.

Despite apologizing for his conduct and masking the associated fee of the injury, the 2023 U.S. Open champion has struggled to win over followers ever since. It was obvious from the start in Southampton, New York, on Sunday that the bulk of spectators have been rooting for anybody other than Clark.

The 32-year-old had established a commanding six-shot lead at seven under par through 54 holes, and had remarked on the sparse crowds in attendance following his third spherical. The Colorado native was competing in the ultimate group alongside world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler, who was met with thunderous help from the galleries as he tried to reel in the chief.

Clark, however, discovered his strong photographs and holed putts greeted with a muted response. Some spectators even cheered when he made errors, and he was subjected to repeated heckles urging his ball to “get in the bunker.” Dame Laura, a four-time major champion masking the event for British broadcaster Sky Sports, voiced her criticism of the crowd’s conduct on a number of events as Clark navigated his back 9.

By the time she reached the thirteenth gap, where Clark missed a mid-range par putt, the four-time Solheim Cup winner had reached her restrict with the gallery’s conduct. “I’m not having this New York crowd,” she said. “I’m really not. Team sport is one thing; this is individuals out there. They need to pack it up.”

In his post-round interview with NBC’s Mike Tirico, Clark acknowledged the chilly reception. He said: “New York didn’t really like me. I love you guys. But I get it. Some of it’s self-deserved. I did some unfortunate things last year that I really regret, and I’ve been sorry multiple times and I’m still sorry, so hopefully I can win you guys over eventually.

“But I get it; they have been rooting for Scottie. Grand Slams only occur a few instances. He’s going to get it. He’s the best participant in the world. But today it is my day.”