Wyndham Clark claimed to have a ‘really weird’ skill that no golf coach would teach

Wyndham Clark emerged as a dominant figure on the PGA Tour throughout 2026, reasserting himself among golf’s elite with multiple significant victories. After a period without wins since early 2024, Clark’s triumph at the CJ CUP Byron Nelson in May marked a pivotal return to form. This momentum carried forward into June when he secured his second U.S. Open title at the challenging Shinnecock Hills course, further cementing his stature in the game.

Clark’s strong showing did not end there, as he added another prestigious win at the BMW Championship during the FedEx Cup playoffs. These accomplishments contributed to a standout year, showcasing an athlete who refined and expanded his skill set to compete at the highest level. By the end of the season, Clark had claimed his sixth PGA Tour victory, underscoring his consistency and resilience on tour.

One of the most notable aspects of Clark’s performance in 2026 was the evolution of his short game, particularly his chipping technique. Fellow professional Smylie Kaufman highlighted this in commentary, noting that Clark’s approach deviates from conventional coaching methods. Rather than employing the typical descending strike with a fixed spine angle emphasized by many instructors, Clark utilizes a distinctive scooping motion. This unorthodox style allows him to impart a quick tempo to his chips, resulting in shots that pop up effectively near the green.

Statistically, Clark’s chipping prowess translated into a top-15 ranking in strokes gained around the green for the 2026 season. This metric reflects how much a player improves their position relative to the field in that category, indicating Clark’s short game contributed significantly to his overall success. Additionally, his approach shots and putting were solid, placing him within the top 25 in strokes gained in those disciplines as well.

Analysis of Clark’s driving reveals further growth. Early in his career, he was known for producing pronounced fades, sometimes described as “banana shots,” which, while effective, could lead to inconsistency. However, in 2026, observers noticed a marked improvement in his ability to shape shots both ways, including straighter drives and controlled draws. This versatility off the tee enhanced his ability to navigate different courses and conditions more strategically.

Kaufman expressed that these refinements position Clark firmly among the world’s best players once again, a status hinted at in previous seasons but fully realized in 2026. The combination of a more reliable ball flight and an inventive short game marks a new chapter in Clark’s career, showcasing a well-rounded golfer with a blend of traditional and unconventional elements.

While Clark’s achievements and improvements have been well documented during the 2026 season, anticipation now builds around his prospects heading into 2027. Maintaining this level of performance will be crucial as he seeks to build on his momentum and potentially add to his major championship tally and tournament wins.

Although details about Clark’s practice routines or coaching influences on his chipping technique remain limited, the impact of his unique style on his competitive results is clear. His willingness to deviate from orthodox instruction and develop a personalized approach underscores the evolving nature of golf instruction and performance.

In summary, Wyndham Clark’s 2026 PGA Tour campaign was marked by major victories, significant statistical achievements, and a distinctive approach to the game that challenges conventional norms. His resurgence on tour highlights both his skill development and adaptability, signaling a compelling presence in professional golf moving forward.