Wyndham Clark Breaks His Slump
Wyndham Clark achieved a striking victory at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson. Despite not winning since February 2024, Clark ended his slump by delivering a final-round 60 at TPC Craig Ranch. He finished three shots ahead of competitors Scottie Scheffler and Si Woo Kim. As a former U.S. Open winner, Clark has proved he can excel when his game aligns.
TPC Craig Ranch’s Troubled ‘Debut’
TPC Craig Ranch underwent a significant $25 million renovation with the aim of becoming more challenging. However, the golf course did not deliver the difficulty expected. Clark won at 30-under, and seven other players also finished significantly under par. Many criticized the course for its lack of challenge.
The Varied Success of Clark’s Career
Clark has won titles across diverse locations: Quail Hollow, Los Angeles Country Club, Pebble Beach, and now TPC Craig Ranch. His varied successes demonstrate versatility, signifying he can triumph on different styles of golf courses. Although his performance has fluctuated, reaching No. 3 in the world in April 2024 and demonstrating moments of exceptional skill, his putting skill is a critical differentiator.
Clark’s recent choice to change his putter in April improved his performance. His putting statistics markedly increased, evidenced by leading the CJ Cup Byron Nelson in strokes gained: putting. He gained nearly 4.5 strokes on the greens during the final round, turning this advantage into a remarkable 11-under 60.
Challenges at TPC Craig Ranch
Despite efforts to elevate TPC Craig Ranch’s complexity, conditions facilitated high scores. Former PGA Champion Lanny Wadkins supervised the renovation, but players like Clark and Kim thrived, highlighting the course’s continued vulnerability. Weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and minimal wind, contributed to accessible play, questioning the course changes.
(They) said they didn’t want 30 under winning the thing anymore, and I told them, don’t worry.
His quote mirrors the situation’s irony amid the costly renovations.
For fans on-site, TPC Craig Ranch remains enjoyable yet different from many other TPC courses. The course poses the question of who matters more—professional players and distant viewers, or paying spectators and members who enjoy the course.
LIV Golf’s New Strategies
Facing funding cuts from Saudi investors, LIV Golf seeks new financial support. Reports indicate a focus on a global 10-event schedule, seeking $250 million to $350 million in new investments. Fan enthusiasm at past events in Australia and South Africa emphasizes LIV’s potential appeal.
Despite plans, Bloomberg reported the possible groundwork for bankruptcy procedures in the U.S. Potential investors might hesitate involving bankruptcy, especially when significant investment is sought. LIV Golf’s next event is in South Korea on May 28.
Mark Harris contributes as a writer for OutKick.