DeChambeau Penalized Two Shots at Open, Disputes Ruling
5 verified2 unconfirmed
Bryson DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty after the second round of The Open at Royal Birkdale for inadvertently improving his lie on the fifth hole. The American had finished his round with a birdie on the 18th to reach seven under par, but the penalty dropped him to five under, three strokes behind leader Lucas Herbert. DeChambeau wrote on social media that he was disappointed with the decision but said it “fires me up” for the weekend. R&A referee Grant Moir explained that DeChambeau was penalized under Rule 8.1, which restricts actions that improve conditions affecting a stroke, even when the action is accidental. The ruling sparked debate among players and pundits, with some deeming it a clear breach while others expressed sympathy. DeChambeau declined media interviews after the penalty was confirmed.
What’s verified
Bryson DeChambeau was given a two-shot penalty for inadvertently improving the area of his intended backswing on the fifth hole at Royal Birkdale during the second round of The Open.
The penalty changed his score from seven under par to five under par, putting him three strokes behind leader Lucas Herbert.
DeChambeau expressed disappointment with the ruling on social media but stated it “fires me up” and confirmed he would continue in the tournament.
R&A referee Grant Moir stated that Rule 8.1 applies even when the action is accidental, as it was in DeChambeau’s case.
The decision took more than 70 minutes from the time DeChambeau walked off the 18th green to its confirmation.
Not yet confirmed
One source reported that DeChambeau was initially undecided about whether to continue in the championship, though he later appeared to confirm his intention on social media.
It is not specified in the sources whether DeChambeau intends to appeal the penalty or seek further review.
Key figures
Bryson DeChambeau (two-time US Open champion, contender at The Open)
Grant Moir (R&A executive director of governance, referee)
Lucas Herbert (tournament leader after round two)
Mark Darbon (R&A chief executive, mentioned in one source)
Graeme Storm (DP World Tour rules official, working as BBC summarizer)
Paul McGinley (Golf Channel analyst)
Laura Davies (former professional golfer, commentator)
Nick Faldo (three-time Open champion)
Sources: BBC News, Sky Sports
