DeChambeau Penalized Two Shots for Improving Lie
Bryson DeChambeau erupted in anger and threatened to withdraw from The Open after R&A rules officials penalized him two strokes for inadvertently improving his lie during the second round at Royal Birkdale. The American had initially believed he posted a sensational 66 to move within one shot of leader Lucas Herbert, but the penalty dropped him to a tie for fifth, three strokes adrift.
The incident occurred on the fifth hole, where DeChambeau's wayward tee shot landed in knee-high rough. Replays showed him trampling down the grass near his ball, which officials determined improved the area of his intended swing. He was driven back to the scene and engaged in heated arguments with officials, reportedly threatening to quit if penalized.
Official Explanation of the Rule
Referee Grant Moir explained: "So Bryson has been penalised two strokes for inadvertently improving the area of his swing, so his intended backswing, on the fifth hole when he was playing his second shot. Basically, I'm going to explain the technicalities of the rule here for you." Moir detailed that Rule 8.1 restricts players from improving conditions affecting the stroke, including the area of the intended swing, even if accidental. He stated: "This applies even when the action is accidental, as it was in Bryson's case."
DeChambeau's caddie and agent were also involved in discussions. After the round, DeChambeau ignored a reporter's question about his participation on Saturday and was later seen practicing on the driving range. His agent, Brett Falkoff, said: "Let's see if he shows up late tomorrow afternoon, your guess is as good as mine."
Reactions and Implications
Dame Laura Davies commented on Sky Sports: "They are questioning his integrity. He said he didn't do it. Whatever he thinks, I think he will play tomorrow even if he says he will not. Where is he supposed to put his feet?" The penalty saw DeChambeau drop from second place to a tie for fifth with Sam Burns and Kim Si Woo, both on six-under par. This marks another setback in a major season where he missed cuts at the Masters, PGA Championship, and US Open.
The incident has sparked debate over the strict application of rules, with many questioning whether DeChambeau will follow through on his threat to quit. As of now, no official statement has been released regarding his status for the third round.
