Clark's Comeback: From Dark Place to U.S. Open Contender

Wyndham Clark, the 2023 U.S. Open champion, has dramatically turned his career around and heads into the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills with renewed confidence. Last year, Clark described being in a "dark place" after enduring the worst season of his career in 2025, plummeting from World No. 7 to 33rd in the OWGR rankings due to poor form and mounting frustration.

Clark revealed on the Kaufman Show that his decision to self-teach his swing at the end of 2022 led to a significant number of bad habits. He noted that his swing had become too long with excessive lag, making it difficult to time. This self-coaching period was followed by an amazing 2023-2024 season but faltered at the end of 2024 and drastically in 2025.

In December 2025, Clark hired Pat Coyner as his new swing coach. Coyner, director of instruction at Cherry Hills Country Club, helped Clark return to the swing mechanics that were successful in 2023. Their focus shifted to making his swing shorter and wider, reducing lag, and improving timing.

These adjustments have yielded tangible results. Clark’s driving accuracy improved from 55.49% (160th on PGA Tour) in 2025 to 58.19% (91st) this season. His Strokes Gained: Approach the Green also saw a significant leap from -0.284 (154th) to 0.545 (14th).

Clark's recent performance reflects this resurgence. Of his 15 starts this season, he has made the cut in 12. He secured his first win since 2024 at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson 2026, followed by a solo 3rd at the Memorial Tournament and a T11 at the RBC Canadian Open.

Clark also recounted a "nervous breakdown" during the 2025 U.S. Open at Oakmont, where he was smashing lockers after missing the cut. He now views this incident as a wake-up call and sees the 2026 U.S. Open as an opportunity for redemption. He highlighted his improved ability to shape shots, including draws and straight balls, a significant departure from his previously one-dimensional game.

This newfound shot-making versatility is crucial for navigating Shinnecock Hills, known for its relentless Atlantic winds and fast greens, issues previously highlighted by Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. Clark's enhanced approach game will aid control on these greens, and improved driving accuracy will be beneficial on the course's generous fairways, reducing penalties from the thick rough.

Clark's comeback is more than just a mechanical fix; it's a testament to rebuilding his game with a renewed sense of confidence. His journey from self-taught struggles to a refined swing ready for major championship contention underscores a significant personal and professional transformation.