Bryson DeChambeau’s Warm Welcome at The Open

How the Fans Reacted After the Penalty

The R&A handed Bryson DeChambeau a two‑shot penalty on Friday night after he unintentionally improved the lie of his ball in thick rough on hole 5 during the second round. The decision left DeChambeau visibly upset, and his agent even suggested the two‑time US Open champion was uncertain about continuing. Yet he teed off on Saturday, aiming to become the first LIV Golf star to lift the Claret Jug.

Despite the controversy, the atmosphere at Royal Birkdale proved surprisingly supportive. Speaking on Sky Sports as DeChambeau prepared to chip onto the 18th green, Iona Stephen revealed she heard just one boo in four hours of play. “Only once did I hear a boo—once in four hours—so understandably he was giving thanks walking up there onto this green,” she commented, adding that DeChambeau seemed “totally focused on golf today.”

The majority of spectators in Southport appeared eager to cheer the LIV Golf competitor rather than jeer. However, a lone heckler in the 18th‑stand section did not hold back. A post on X by journalist Ewan Murray quoted a voice yelling, “Bryson ya cheat” as partner Sam Burns lined up a putt and “Up The R&A” as DeChambeau prepared for his par attempt.

Even with that isolated outburst, DeChambeau’s reception was notably warm, a fact that underscores how the golfing community can separate a single rule dispute from a player’s overall reputation. The incident also highlights the intense scrutiny surrounding high‑profile players, especially when they vie for historic wins like the first Claret Jug for a LIV Golf star. Going forward, DeChambeau will look to keep his focus amid the noise, hoping the supportive majority continues to outweigh the few voices of dissent.