Bryson DeChambeau has faced sharp criticism over his preparations for the Masters, with former Ryder Cup star Andrew Coltart labelling them a 'joke' after the American missed the cut. DeChambeau, a pre-tournament favourite, finished six over par following a second-round 74 that included a triple bogey on the 18th.
Coltart took aim at DeChambeau's pre-tournament antics, which included having comedian Kevin Hart as his caddie for the Par Three Contest. Speaking on the Sky Sports Golf podcast, Coltart said: 'What’s more important? Your followers or winning major championships? ... Come on, that’s just a joke that is.' He also criticised the quality of courses DeChambeau plays on before majors.
DeChambeau's early exit contrasted sharply with Rory McIlroy, who successfully defended his title to become the fourth player to win consecutive Masters. McIlroy overcame a shaky third round to hold off challengers including Cameron Young and Scottie Scheffler.
Despite the disappointment, DeChambeau expressed a desire to maintain a rivalry with McIlroy. 'Do I respect him as an individual? 100 per cent. Do I want to beat him every time I see him? Absolutely,' he said, referencing their clashes at the 2024 US Open and this year's Masters.
