Colorado’s Wyndham Clark wins U.S. Open thanks to friends, coaches, and memory of his mother

“I feel like I’m one of the best players in the world.”

by Jim Bebbington

Back in her 20s Wyndham Clark’s mother, Lise, lived in L.A. and she and Clark’s father, Randall, were married there before they moved to Denver and raised a family. 

All last week Clark was focused on competing in the biggest golf tournament of his career – the U.S. Open – when people approached him with photos of his mom from when she was young.  

“So it was kind of a special vibe all week,” he said after his victory Sunday. “All I really wish is that my mom could be here and I could just hug her and and we could celebrate together. But I know she’s proud of me.” 

Lise Thevenet Clark died of breast cancer in 2013 when her son Wyndham was in college. Her death derailed him significantly, but he spoke Sunday about how the help he received from coaches, friends and family through that time led directly to Sunday’s victory. 

Clark, a two-time state champ at Valor Christian High School, reached his highest point yet in his PGA career Sunday, winning the 2023 U.S. Open with a score of 10-under, one shot ahead of Rory McIlroy.  

Clark played steady – but not perfect – golf Sunday while some of the biggest names in the game came after him and fell short. Clark played in the final group alongside LA favorite Rickie Fowler, and heard the crowd chant Fowler’s name time and time again. 

“I feel like I belong on this stage and even two or three years ago when people didn’t know who I was, I felt like I could still compete against the best players in the world and I I felt like I’ve shown that this year,” he said at the post-match press conference. “…obviously everyone sees the person that hoists the trophy, but I’ve been trending in the right direction for a long time now. I’ve made a lot of cuts. I’ve had a handful of top 10s and top 20s. And I feel like I’ve been on a great trajectory to get to this place and obviously it’s gone faster than I thought.” 

In the wake of the victory Clark said he wants to continue to compete and enjoy being around his fellow competitors, but wants to win again.  

“I feel like I’m one of the best players in the world,” he said. 

The win netted him a $3.6 million payday and put him in the running to take part in the 2023 Ryder Cup Team, which competes in September in Italy. 

Sunday night after Clark’s victory many people found the online obituary and memorial page for his mother. After 10 years, new comments poured in like this “He did it Lise! You were right! He made it to the PGA and won! Rest in peace now, beautiful lady! You were an exemplary mother. God bless you and your family!” 

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