Bryson DeChambeau Fires Back After Two-Shot Penalty at The Open

Bryson DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty for improving his swing line in the rough during Round 2 of The Open. He voiced disappointment but vowed to continue, saying the ruling 'fires me up' for the weekend.

Brit Brief 18/07/2026 07:59

Bryson DeChambeau Fires Back After Two-Shot Penalty at The Open — DeChambeau Fires Back After Two-Shot Penalty at The Open

Bryson DeChambeau released a statement early Saturday morning following a two-shot penalty incurred during the second round of The Open at Royal Birkdale. The American golfer criticized the 'disappointing' decision but confirmed he will continue playing in the championship.

Penalty Details

DeChambeau was penalized for improving the line of his swing in thick rough on the par-four fifth hole. The penalty pushed him back to five under par, three shots behind leader Lucas Herbert. After signing his card for a four-under 66, he was informed of the infringement and returned to the site with rules officials to review the incident.

DeChambeau's Reaction

Writing on X, DeChambeau said: 'Obviously disappointed with the ruling. I don’t agree with it, but it is what it is. This fires me up. Onto the weekend. Let’s get it.' On Instagram, he posted digitally-manipulated images of himself floating above the rough with the caption: 'Walking into the weekend like…'

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R&A Statement

R&A Referee Grant Moir explained: 'Bryson has been penalised two strokes for inadvertently improving the area of his intended backswing on the fifth hole when he was playing his second shot.' He detailed that Rule 8.1 prohibits improving the area of intended swing, even if accidental, and that DeChambeau's actions violated this rule despite no intent.

Impact on Tournament

DeChambeau, who started the round with a 67, had moved within one shot of the halfway lead before the penalty. He now sits at five under par, three strokes behind Herbert. Despite the setback, DeChambeau expressed determination to compete over the weekend.