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We have seen the support extending to the course resulting on the side of the golfer. Take the example of Brian Harman, who recently won the Valero Texas Open. Well, similar is the case with the LPGA professional who, after her victory, praised her husband, Jack Clarke. “He’s the most supportive person,” said Madelene Sagstrom about her partner after her second win at the T-Mobile Match Play.

Sagstrom was visibly emotional after her win, reflecting on the journey that led her there. She emphasized how much her support system has meant to her, especially her husband, Jack Clarke. “He played professionally and just knows the effort and the hard work that goes into it, so it’s just so super nice to have somebody like that in your ball court and just be able to share these moments with you,” Sagstrom said.

Madelene Sagstrom and Jack Clarke first met in 2018 during the UL International Crown tournament. Clarke was caddying for Anna Nordqvist, and Sagstrom was competing as a participant. With both involved in the event, their paths naturally crossed, and a connection quickly formed. Their mutual passion for the sport and understanding of the highs and lows of life on tour brought them closer over time.

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What began as a friendship eventually blossomed into a relationship, and in 2024, they made it official. The couple tied the knot in a beautiful ceremony in London that September. The wedding was thoughtfully planned between two major events in Sagstrom’s schedule — the Women’s Open in St. Andrews and the Solheim Cup in Virginia — a reflection of how seamlessly golf is woven into their lives. Clarke, who has been immersed in the game since he was six, turned professional at 18 and played for a decade. Although injuries ended his playing career, his love for the sport never faded. He transitioned into caddying on the LPGA Tour, previously working with Jaye Marie Green and currently on the bag for Anna Nordqvist.

 

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However, even before they said “I do,” the Clarke family was already part of Sagstrom’s inner circle. The bond between Sagstrom and the Clarke family goes beyond wedding vows. It was on full display years earlier, during a tournament that changed everything.

Madelene Sagstrom with Alan Clarke at the course

The 32-year-old Swede professional has been playing professionally since 2015. But the interesting story of fill-in caddie was a memorable feat for her. In 2020, the golfer stepped into his Gainbridge LPGA at Boca Rio with a new caddie. Madelene Sagstrom’s regular caddie David Buhai, husband of Ashleigh Buhai, LPGA professional, was in South Africa for a family affair, and Jack Clarke was caddying for Caroline Hedwall.

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What’s your perspective on:

Does having a supportive partner like Jack Clarke make all the difference in a pro athlete's career?

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Now, with a tough situation for her participation, she asked her to-be father-in-law, Alan Clarke, for looper’s responsibility. The 68-year-old’s support on the course has paid off for her. The golfer holed an 8-footer for par on the final hole to avoid a playoff against Nasa Hotaoka and clinch her first title. She won the first title on her 69th start at the LPGA Tour, and what a special moment it was as she had a fill-in caddie, her father-in-law. Sagstrom, even for his contribution, has thanked father Clarke, saying, “Proud of Alan for fighting through fatigue the first couple of days.” 

With her second LPGA title, Sagstrom continues to draw strength from the support around her—from Jack to Alan. It’s a story that beautifully blends love, family, and the game of golf, and it has warmed hearts across the golfing community. What are your thoughts on it? Share with us in the comments below.

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Does having a supportive partner like Jack Clarke make all the difference in a pro athlete's career?

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