Wyndham Clark Makes History with Record-Breaking Round at Pebble Beach
Tournament Saturdays at Pebble Beach Golf Links on the Monterey Peninsula have long been synonymous with celebrity antics and the lighthearted banter of amateur players. From the days of Bing Crosby to recent appearances by Bill Murray and Ray Romano, it was a delightful spectacle that marked the beginning of the PGA TOUR professionals' serious play on Sundays.
However, the script was rewritten this week at Pebble Beach, unveiling a new and improved narrative. The familiar amateur hour took a backseat as a formidable field of pros took center stage. Saturday's play at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am became a stage for one man's remarkable pursuit of history at this iconic venue.
Wyndham Clark, the U.S. Open champion from last summer, orchestrated a magical performance that had the golf world buzzing. Racing to an astonishing 10-under par through 11 holes, Clark found himself on the brink of joining an elite club – those who had achieved a sub-60 round in PGA TOUR history.
Clark's pursuit of a historic sub-60 round culminated on the 18th green, where he stood over a 26-footer for eagle. Although the attempt fell just short, Clark's consolation was a tournament score of 12-under 60, a record-breaking achievement at the famed Pebble Beach Golf Links.
"It was honestly surreal," Clark reflected on the round. "To have a chance to shoot 59 with that putt ... it was pretty special."
This incredible round not only secured Clark a three-shot lead heading into the final round but also shattered the tournament scoring mark at Pebble Beach. His 60 eclipsed the previous record of 62, jointly held by Tom Kite, David Duval, Patrick Cantlay, and Matthias Schwab. Clark's putting prowess was on full display, sinking nearly 190 feet of putts, a record since such statistics have been kept at Pebble Beach.
Beyond the numerical achievements, Clark's journey to this historic round was marked by resilience and adaptability. Struggling with his putting in recent times, he brought nine putters to Pebble Beach and even switched to a cross-handed grip, showcasing his determination to find the right formula.
The significance of Clark's accomplishment extends beyond personal milestones. Turning 30 in December, Clark's stellar 2023 season saw him clinch his first major, the U.S. Open, and represent the United States in the Ryder Cup. This recent triumph positions him as a formidable contender for a second major title in California.
As the golf world eagerly anticipates Sunday's final round, where harsh weather conditions may play a role, Wyndham Clark's name will be etched in Pebble Beach history as the man who defied expectations and left an indelible mark on one of the sport's most revered courses.
