Wyndham Clark–a former U.S. Open champion and a standout through 2025–is out of this week’s Wyndham Championship. The withdrawal, announced just days after Clark officially joined the field, comes on the heels of a scorching stretch across three tournaments that vaulted him from 77th to 48th in the FedEx Cup standing.
Although the Tour has not confirmed specifics, several reports and insider notes point to a neck injury that forced him to retire mid-round at The Players Championship and ultimately skip the North Carolina event. Still, Clark’s recent run–tied for 11th at the Scottish Open, solo fourth at The Open, and T12 at the 3M Open–had already secured his spot in the upcoming FedEx Cup Playoffs.
With only the top 50 advancing to the next stage at the FedEx St. Jude Championship, Clark could afford to step back, but the timing speaks volumes about how tenuous form and health can be, even for top-tier competitors.
Neck Trouble and Legacy Impact
This wasn’t Clark’s first injury scare in 2025. During the March Players Championship, he exited in the second round due to neck spasms—an abrupt end to what should have been one of his defining weeks. After a front-nine 4-over burst, Clark shook hands with competitors and rode off the course, clearly battling more than the course’s punishing layout.
Known for his fiery edge and emotional on-course style, Clark’s recent behavioral meltdown–smashing a locker at Oakmont after missing the cut at the U.S. Open–only heightened scrutiny and pressure. That incident resulted in his suspension from Oakmont until he makes amends via charity, counseling, and restitution. For a player building on a legacy-defining major win in 2023, these incidents pose questions about consistency and composure.
“I’m just trying to get past it. I want the best for Oakmont, the USGA, and myself,” Clark said. “Like I said, I’m very sorry for what I did and feel terrible, and hopefully, in a few months, we’re past this, and it’s something of the past.”
Despite off-course drama, Clark’s game has flashed brilliance. In 2023, he won his first PGA Tour event (Wells Fargo) and promptly added a U.S. Open title. Yet 2025 has been a grind–marked by inconsistency. As Clark himself admitted post-Players, external expectations have skewed his mindset, making the game feel like a performance rather than play.
Backing up to finish tied for fourth at The British Open was a statement. Suddenly, questions about form faded: now, it was about dealing with the weight of being a major champion. That level of attention can be a double-edged sword–particularly if physical health or emotional stability waver.
What Clark’s Withdrawal Means for the Playoffs
By stepping out of the Wyndham Championship, Clark ensures his calculated path into the FedEx Cup Playoffs remains intact. With his standing now solid enough to move on, the withdrawal becomes a strategic pause–preserving energy and minimizing risk before the high-stakes stretch begins.
If Clark recovers swiftly, his strong form may continue into the St. Jude and BMW Championships. But if the neck issue lingers, his playoff window could narrow rapidly. The calendar doesn’t leave much room–for injury or distraction.
One of Golf’s Hottest Names Just Pulled Out of the Wyndham