Rory McIlroy has criticised Bryson DeChambeau over his two-shot penalty at The Open Championship, describing the American's behaviour as 'performative' and 'not a good look' for the sport. McIlroy, a two-time major winner, said he and other players watching live immediately suspected DeChambeau had breached the rules.
McIlroy Witnessed Incident Live
Speaking after the second round at Royal Birkdale, McIlroy revealed he was in the players' lounge when DeChambeau's swing drew attention. 'As soon as he made the step into the ball, we all sort of looked at each other and were like, "that didn't seem right",' McIlroy said. He added that when DeChambeau was called in by rules officials, the reason was obvious.
DeChambeau was penalised for improving the line of his backswing during Friday's round. McIlroy said: 'I think there's no doubt he improved the line of his backswing, whether it was careless or if it was intentional, it doesn't matter, hopefully it was careless. I think the two-shot penalty was justified.'
McIlroy Refuses to Defend DeChambeau
McIlroy made clear he would not defend his fellow professional. 'I won't pretend to stand up here and defend Bryson, I'm not particularly fond of him,' he said. 'A lot of it is performative, attention. To hold the tournament hostage like that, have players, volunteers and everyone within to the part, it wasn't a great look. I'm not in his mind but it didn't look good.'
The incident occurred late on Friday, prompting a lengthy delay. McIlroy noted it was 'a late night for everyone' and criticised the disruption caused to players, volunteers, and spectators.
DeChambeau's Penalty and Reaction
DeChambeau was handed a two-shot penalty after officials determined he had improved the area behind his ball during a practice swing. The American has not publicly commented extensively on the penalty, but McIlroy's remarks highlight growing tension between the two players.
McIlroy's comments come as DeChambeau continues to attract controversy for his on-course behaviour. The Northern Irishman's blunt assessment underscores the divide within professional golf over DeChambeau's approach.
