Bryson DeChambeau Faces Penalty, Clouds Open Play

Penalty Hits DeChambeau After Strong Second Round

Bryson DeChambeau posted a 66 in round two, leaving him seven‑under after 36 holes—just one stroke behind the leader. However, after walking off the 18th green at Royal Birkdale, he was hit with a two‑stroke penalty for inadvertently improving his lie on the fifth hole. The punishment dropped him to five‑under par and cast doubt over his participation in Saturday’s round.

R&A Provides Official Ruling

Grant Moir, the R&A’s rules official, released a detailed statement explaining the infraction. He said the penalty applied because Bryson DeChambeau improved the area of his intended backswing, even though the act was accidental. The rule prohibits moving, bending or breaking any growing or natural object that could affect the swing. Moir reiterated that the restriction holds regardless of intent. The explanation also clarified that a player may take a stance but must do so with the least intrusive action.

Agent Speaks Out, Future in Balance

Bryson’s agent told reporters the R&A felt the player was not careful enough with his footing and that he altered his swing path. The agent added that Bryson DeChambeau will decide whether to continue on Saturday morning, emphasizing, “He’s a lot of things. He’s not a cheater.” Golf Digest writer Joel Beall reported that DeChambeau wandered the scoring area, asked if reporters were having a good night, and later hit balls on the range. Kevin Van Valkenburg also noted DeChambeau’s casual walk‑by and the lingering uncertainty about his status. The news has fans and pundits debating whether the penalty will sway his decision to play on.

What It Means for The Open

If DeChambeau withdraws, it would be a notable upset for a player who had been just a stroke off the lead. The incident highlights how even inadvertent actions can lead to significant drops in tournament standing. Royal Birkdale fans are left wondering whether they will see him tee off again. The week’s events continue to unfold, with speculation still rising. The Open’s drama remains far from finished.