Wyndham Clark’s dismal first round at the Olympics was always likely – here’s why

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Wyndham Clark’s opening round at the Paris 2024 Olympics did not go to plan. The Golfing Gazette takes a look at why that was always likely.

Clark was selected as one of Team USA’s four male golfers to compete at the Olympics, despite many believing that US Open winner Bryson DeChambeau was more deserving.

And, after scoring a 4-over 75 on Thursday, USA fans have become even more critical of his inclusion.

The 30-year-old dropped four shots in his first five holes at Le Golf National in what was a truly disastrous start to his Olympics debut.

He looked to have bounced back later in the round with birdies on holes nine, 10 and 14, but a double bogey on 15 undid his hard work.

60 players are vying for the gold medal this week and only two – Min Woo Lee and Camilo Villegas – are behind Clark at this stage.

One would assume that this must have been an off day for the world number five but the Golfing Gazette explains why that is simply not the case.

• READ MORE: Wyndham Clark reveals what he’s noticed both Xander Schauffele and Scottie Scheffler do so well

Wyndham Clark’s major record

Of course, Clark is an outstanding golfer. You do not win the US Open (2023) – holding off the likes of Rory McIlroy – unless you are supremely talented.

However, the American’s major record suggests that his performance at Los Angeles Country Club last year was somewhat of an aberration.

He has made the cut just five times in 11 starts at major championships. And, when making the weekend, he has only finished inside the top 30 once – his US Open victory.

So, it is fair to say that Clark does not usually perform on the biggest stages – and there is no bigger stage than the Olympics.

Tournaments like The Masters and the Open Championship may be held in higher regard but there is no more pressurised situation than representing your country at an event that takes place once every four years.

Thus, the hard truth is that Clark was always likely to struggle in this environment.