Wyndham Clark’s 2026 Caddie: David “Big Wave Dave” Pelekoudas
Wyndham Clark has seen a significant resurgence in 2026, and a key factor behind his strong U.S. Open start at Shinnecock Hills is his new caddie, David Pelekoudas, also known as “Big Wave Dave.” After missing three cuts earlier in the season, Clark opened the U.S. Open with a 6-under 64, including an eagle on the 5th, followed by a 1-under 69 in Round 2.
Caddie Background
David Pelekoudas joined Clark’s team after a long-term split with John Ellis in mid-March 2026. Ellis explained:
“We’re friends before business, and things just weren’t right. Something had to give and it felt like it was just time maybe, you know, a different voice for both of us would help.”
Pelekoudas had previously covered for Ellis at the 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational due to Ellis being sidelined with a fever. That experience convinced Clark to hire Pelekoudas full-time.
Before joining Clark, Pelekoudas caddied for Blayne Barber, Brian Campbell, Shawn Stefani, Jonathan Byrd, and Marty Dou. Born and raised in Newport Beach, California, Pelekoudas began caddying in 2010 and also played collegiate golf, starting the sport at age 16.
Education and Early Career
Pelekoudas graduated in 2012 and attended Orange Coast College for the 2012–2013 academic year. He later transferred to Pepperdine University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Administration while playing on the NCAA Men’s Golf Team from 2014 to 2016. A career highlight was winning the WCC Championship with Pepperdine during his junior year.
While at Pepperdine, he held two internships: one in athletic sales and external relations (August–December 2014) and another in the collegiate services division (five months following). These experiences contributed to his deep understanding of sports management and athlete support.
Lifestyle and Interests
Away from the golf course, Pelekoudas maintains a private but active lifestyle. In interviews and social media, he has shared a love for basketball, gym workouts, fishing, beach outings, traveling, and following NFL and other sports. His Instagram showcases trips with friends and family, as well as beach and sports activities.
Early Impact on Wyndham Clark
Since bringing Pelekoudas on board, Clark’s performance has improved markedly. After missing the cut at the PGA Championship 2026, Clark won the CJ Cup Byron Nelson and finished solo third at the Memorial Tournament. At Shinnecock Hills, he entered the U.S. Open with momentum, including a T11 finish at the RBC Canadian Open.
Clark’s partnership with “Big Wave Dave” illustrates the importance of chemistry and trust between golfer and caddie, suggesting that the mid-season change may have been a pivotal move in rejuvenating his campaign.
Their collaboration continues to show promise as Clark competes among the best at the 2026 U.S. Open.
