Golf influencer Paige Spiranac has voiced strong support for Wyndham Clark, her longtime friend and the recent US Open champion, stating that the criticism leveled against him has become "tiresome" and that he is often "misunderstood."
Spiranac, who has known Clark since he was 12 years old, took to social media platform X to address the backlash Clark faced during and after his victory at Shinnecock Hills. The golfer endured a hostile atmosphere, with spectators reportedly cheering his errors and heckling him, leading to police intervention to remove disruptive fans. Clark himself acknowledged the sentiment, stating at the trophy ceremony, "New York didn't really like me... I get it. Some of it's self deserved. I did some unfortunate things last year that I really regret, and I've said sorry multiple times, and I'm still sorry."
Clark's unpopularity among some fans stems largely from an incident at the 2025 US Open, where he reportedly damaged a locker room after missing the cut. He also previously threw his driver in frustration at a PGA Championship. These incidents, combined with a perceived lack of emotional expression by other golfers, have contributed to Clark becoming a polarizing figure.
Spiranac countered these criticisms, arguing that while sports may need villains, constant condemnation for minor mistakes, especially after apologies, is excessive. "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 wrote. Responding to a user who called Clark a "douchebag," Spiranac stated, "I’ve known him since he was 12. I’ve never seen that side of him in person. It’s just crazy people can make such a snap judgement about someone without ever meeting them."
Clark's victory came after a shaky start to his final round, where he bogeyed three of his first seven holes. However, he rallied to secure his second major title, effectively silencing the booing crowds with his performance.
In a recent appearance on the "Pardon My Take" podcast, Clark also made headlines by alleging that his ex-girlfriend cheated on him in 2016 with NFL quarterback Baker Mayfield. Clark stated that he has since reconciled his feelings towards Mayfield, calling him a "homie" and directing his frustration more towards his former girlfriend. He alluded to an old tweet from 2016 where he expressed hatred for Mayfield, explaining, "My girlfriend at the time cheated on me with Baker Mayfield."