Bryson DeChambeau's cheating controversy at The Open cost the LIV Golf star over £200,000. The two-time US Open champion was punished during the second round after pressing down on the grass during his backswing, leading tournament officials to deem he improved his lie.
Penalty and fallout
DeChambeau had been in second place at one stage and protested the decision, claiming he was only trying to read his line by positioning himself behind the ball. Despite threatening to withdraw, officials decided against removing the two-shot penalty. The American made a beeline for the driving range after R&A officials adjusted his position on the leaderboard, brushing past journalists and contributing to delayed third-round tee times.
Reactions from fellow players
Scottie Scheffler spoke out, asserting that DeChambeau is "not a cheater." Rory McIlroy described the incident as "performative." DeChambeau said the penalty ignited his competitive fire, but he finished tied for 14th, taking home £175,000. Without the two-stroke penalty, he would have earned £384,000 and a share of sixth place.
Looking ahead
DeChambeau is set to play in LIV Golf UK this week, with his Crushers GC side chasing a third triumph of the season while he seeks a third individual victory of 2026.
