Taking things out of context is something people often do. There is no doubt about that. However, sometimes people also say something controversial and later claim it was taken out of context. In the case of Wyndham Clark and his recent comments, it’s a bit ambiguous which of the two happened.

A few days ago, Wyndham Clark answered a question about Rory McIlroy. The golf world perceived it in a way that made it look like Clark said he was better than the 4-time major winner. Explaining his comment, Clark recently spoke on the matter at a pre-tournament press conference at Marco Simone. And as it turns out, he sort of meant exactly what he said!

Wyndham Clark sheds clarity on his comments about Rory McIlroy

Although the question directly addressed Rory McIlroy and Clark’s comment about him, Clark chose to talk about Rickie Fowler instead. He started off with the claim that his comments were taken out of context. And then he went on to speak about how he praised Rickie Fowler in the same interview.

He admitted how he thinks he can be better than Fowler. And he justified his mindset as well. “If I don’t think I’m better than every player out here, then what am I doing?” He further acknowledged how Fowler has had an amazing career, and right now Clark clearly is not better than him.

The journalist, however, circled back to McIlroy again, and this time Clark responded as well. He explained how, when asked a question about who was going to play better, he had no choice but to say he could play better. “By no means did I say anything that was trying to belittle what he did or be cocky or arrogant; it’s more just self-belief in myself,” stated the reigning US Open champion boldly.

Wyndham Clark further spoke about how, during his college days, McIlroy was already winning majors, which inspired him to get there one day. He also admitted that he hadn’t had a chance to meet and talk to the Irishman about it all yet. And with the way his initial statements about the 24-time PGA Tour winner have escalated, undoubtedly a conversation with him is bound to happen!

Read more: ‘A Little Weird’: Rory McIlroy Subtly Contradicts Jon Rahm Following LIV Golfer Sergio Garcia’s ‘Sad’ Reality

Decoding what Clark actually said and meant about McIlroy

In the viral interview being discussed, Wyndham Clark praised Rory McIlroy and established the kind of respect he had for the Irishman. “I have tons of respect for Rory, and because of that respect, I also want to beat him.”

It appears that he merely spoke about how excited he is about a potential challenge. It is likely that he might be pitted against McIlroy in either the paired-up rounds or the singles. And to believe that he can play better than the Irishman and outdo his performance only seems natural for an athlete.

Coming back to the more recent interview, Clark summed up the discussion by reiterating that he was definitely excited about playing with McIlroy. And he claimed that it was because he likes to measure himself up to the best players in the world.

The golf world undoubtedly hopes that the two stars do get to play against each other this week. The combination would certainly be fierce to watch. And with all this commotion ahead of the event, it is bound to be spectacular!

Watch This Story | Tiger Woods Low-Key Leaves Best Bud Justin Thomas High and Dry As Charlie Woods Takes Up the PGA Tour Icon’s Attention Ahead of the Ryder Cup