Reigning U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark has opened up further on claims he cheated during the 2024 Arnold Palmer Invitational on the PGA Tour.
Wyndham Clark has admitted his actions on the 72nd hole at the PGA Tour’s Arnold Palmer Invitational ‘didn’t look great’.
But the American has criticised those who claim he was deliberately playing fast and loose with the rules of golf.
Clark recently hopped on Fox News Digital to address the subject once again days after his Players Championship heartbreak.
The moment that got golf fans all riled up concerned Clark’s actions on the 18th hole at Bay Hill.
Clark’s tee shot missed the fairway and settled in the thick and juicy rough on the right side of the hole.
He grounded his club behind the ball to check the lie and many believe the ball moved and he should have incurred a penalty.
Protesting his innocence, Clark said: “It is unfortunate, because I had no ill intent to try to cheat or improve my lie.”
The current winner of the U.S. Open admitted that he was unaware of the controversy surrounding the incident
until he returned to the scoring area. “He further stated that upon viewing the video, it was evident that the situation did not appear favorable. Despite the negative perception, he maintained that there was no malicious intent behind his actions.” I am allowed to place my golf club on the ground and assess my position. This situation may not be ideal, but I hope it will resolve itself in a few weeks.
I have never attempted to cheat while playing golf, and I hope others do not perceive me in that manner.
“I believe the camera was zoomed in, which exaggerated the situation.”
The moment would’ve of course been more controversial had Clark gone on to win the PGA Tour event.
In the end, world number one Scottie Scheffler solved his putting woes at the iconic venue and lapped the field with a five-stroke victory.
Clark was accused by golf fans of further misconduct during the Players Championship one week later.
Clark once again was a top contender at the TPC Sawgrass, considered the unofficial fifth major, but ultimately lost to Scheffler.
During a particularly harsh moment that is still fresh in our minds, Clark narrowly missed his birdie putt on the last hole. If he had made it, there would have been a tiebreaker.
Clark was clearly disappointed and found it hard to believe what he was seeing.
Clark informed reporters that there are clearly advantages to it. If you come in second place, you receive a lot of points and money, but it’s just a disappointment.
“I have always aspired to make a crucial putt in a professional tournament that could either force a playoff or secure a win. Unfortunately, I have not yet experienced such a significant moment in my career, so I was disappointed.”
“Yes, I’m feeling a bit disoriented. I’m still surprised that the putt didn’t go in.”