Ex-Caddie Opens Up on Split with US Open Champion Wyndham Clark
In the world of professional golf, many players maintain long-term partnerships with their caddies, but one notable exception has emerged. John Ellis, the former caddie for 2023 US Open winner Wyndham Clark, has publicly revealed the reason behind their recent split, emphasizing that their friendship remains intact despite the professional separation.
A Decade-Long Partnership Comes to an End
Ellis had been by Clark's side for over ten years, a journey that began when Clark was a student at the University of Oregon. Initially serving as Clark's assistant head coach during his developmental years, Ellis continued as his caddie when Clark transitioned to the PGA Tour. Their partnership peaked in 2023 when Clark secured his first and only major title at the US Open, with Ellis receiving the inaugural US Open Caddie Award for his role in the victory.
The split occurred just days after Clark finished tied for 42nd at the Players Championship, marking a low point in what has been a challenging 18 months for the golfer. Clark has not won an event since 2024 and was notably absent from Keegan Bradley's Ryder Cup team last summer, adding to his recent struggles on the tour.
Ellis Cites Friendship as the Deciding Factor
In an interview with the Gravy & The Sleeze radio show, Ellis explained that the decision to part ways was driven by a desire to preserve their personal relationship. "When things aren’t going great, and I care more about Wyndham and I’s friendship. We’re friends before business, and things just weren’t right," Ellis stated. He added that he believed a change might benefit both parties, saying, "Something had to give. I felt like it was just time, maybe a different voice for both of us would help."
Despite the professional split, Ellis confirmed that they remain on good terms, noting, "We’re still friends, we texted yesterday, it’s all good. It’s part of the business, and I’m still going to root for him. I’m sure he’ll root for me, whatever I do after this." He also addressed online speculation, clarifying that there is no animosity between them, contrary to appearances on social media.
Clark's Recent Controversies and New Caddie
Clark's career has been marred by recent controversies, most notably an incident at last year's US Open at Oakmont Country Club. After missing the cut, Clark was banned from the club for severely damaging two lockers during a meltdown, a moment that Ellis stood by him through despite public backlash. At the time, Clark was ranked World No. 67, but he has since faced further setbacks.
Looking ahead, Clark will have Dave Pelekoudas as his new caddie for the upcoming Vaspar Championship at the Copperhead Course in Innisbrook Resort. Pelekoudas, a Californian, has previously filled in for Ellis when he was ill at the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational, where Clark performed well with scores of 67 and 71, positioning him second after two rounds. However, Pelekoudas faces the daunting task of replacing Ellis, who has been a constant in Clark's career highs and lows.
The transition will be swift, with less than a week to prepare before the tournament begins on March 20. As Clark seeks to regain his form, this change marks a significant shift in his professional team, underscoring the evolving dynamics in golf partnerships.
