Bryson DeChambeau was furious after receiving a two-shot penalty during the second round of The Open at Royal Birkdale, where he had been challenging for the lead. The American golfer initially posted a score of 66, placing him one shot behind leader Lucas Herbert, but the penalty downgraded his official score to 68.
Penalty for Improving Lie
Tournament officials penalized DeChambeau for allegedly improving his lie on the fifth hole. He was reportedly seen trampling waist-high grass near his ball before taking his shot. DeChambeau strongly disagreed with the ruling and was overheard threatening to withdraw from the tournament.
After the round, DeChambeau ignored reporters' questions about his threat to quit and headed to the driving range to hit balls while awaiting an official statement. Broadcaster Dame Laura Davies defended his actions, noting it was practically impossible to avoid stepping on the vegetation while taking his stance. She expressed belief that he would not follow through on his threat.
DeChambeau's Response
DeChambeau later confirmed he would return for the next round, writing on X: "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."
Jon Rahm's Official Warning
Separately, tournament officials gave Jon Rahm an official warning on Friday after he slammed his club into the ground following a poor tee shot. The raging Spaniard was told he avoided any further penalty after bouncing an iron into the tee box. The R&A had three options: a two-shot penalty, disqualification, or a warning, and they chose the latter.
