Rory McIlroy has sent a surprise invitation to Bryson DeChambeau for the Irish Open in September, despite previously criticizing the American's conduct at The Open Championship. McIlroy had accused DeChambeau of holding the tournament "hostage" and called his antics "performative" after a rules violation delayed tee times.
McIlroy's Invitation
The Irish Open will be held at Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, a course owned by Donald Trump. DeChambeau is a friend of Trump and reportedly threatened to call the US President during his dispute with R&A officials at Birkdale. McIlroy, the defending champion, said: "I mean, I think that would be great for the tournament, absolutely. Having someone like Bryson at the Irish Open, yeah, it would be great for the tournament."
Jason Day Withdraws
Former world number one Jason Day has withdrawn from the 3M Open due to a back injury. The Australian missed the cut at The Open and also withdrew during the first round of the US Open with the same issue. He was replaced by Charley Hoffman.
Meanwhile, world number one Scottie Scheffler made a strong start at the 3M Open with a six-under-par 65, featuring 134 feet of putts. American Ben Kohles leads at nine under after an eagle on the 18th, with Emiliano Grillo, Jackson Koivun, and Gary Woodland sharing second place.
