Bryson DeChambeau Open penalty and Jon Rahm official warning explained | Golf | Sport

Bryson DeChambeau has found himself at the centre of a massive controversy during The Open. He was accused of cheating during his recent round at Royal Birkdale.

The American golfer initially posted a highly impressive score of 66. This outstanding round temporarily placed him just one shot behind the tournament leader, Lucas Herbert.

However, tournament officials subsequently handed DeChambeau a two-shot penalty. This decision ultimately downgraded his official score for the round to a 68.

The penalty was issued because officials claimed he unfairly improved his lie on the fifth hole. He was reportedly seen trampling down waist-high grass near his ball before taking his shot.

DeChambeau strongly disagreed with the officials and their assessment of his actions. During a heated exchange, he was overheard threatening to completely withdraw from the tournament.

Following the round, the golfer ignored questions from reporters regarding his threat to quit. Instead, he headed straight to the driving range to hit balls while awaiting an official statement.

Broadcaster Dame Laura Davies defended DeChambeau’s actions in the long grass. She pointed out that it was practically impossible for him to avoid stepping on the vegetation while taking his stance.

Davies also expressed her belief that the frustrated golfer will not follow through on his threat to walk away. She expects him to return to the course for the next round despite having his integrity questioned.

She was proven right when DeChambeau confirmed he would return to action on Saturday. “Obviously disappointed with the ruling,” he wrote on X. “I don’t agree with it, but it is what it is. This fires me up. Onto the weekend. Let’s get it.”