Bryson DeChambeau Faces Open Championship Test

Two years ago Bryson DeChambeau rode a wave of triumph after a dramatic Sunday rundown of Rory McIlroy at the U.S. Open, culminating in his ecstatic scream. He had posted six top‑10 finishes in eight majors and stood atop golf’s hierarchy. Today the landscape looks dramatically different, with DeChambeau struggling to break into any major’s cut line.

From Historic Win to Recent Misses

DeChambeau has not made a single cut at a major this season, missing all three events so far. His best major result since 2022 is a tied‑10th at last year’s Open, while his highest finish overall remains a tied‑8th in 2022. The slide has left fans wondering whether the former champion is still destined for greatness.

After his resurgence he turned down an offer from the PGA Tour, hoping LIV Golf would provide a new platform. That promise has faded as LIV’s Saudi backing collapses, leaving DeChambeau’s future leverage in jeopardy. He remains under contract for the rest of the year but the financial outlook for the league is now uncertain.

Sharp Criticism from Golf’s Elite

Nick Faldo, a three‑time Open champion, lambasted DeChambeau in a recent Sky Sports Golf podcast, saying the player “has zero clue of strategy.” Faldo argued that links golf requires threading shots and reading the terrain rather than “bombing” them blindly. His own record—23 Open appearances without a missed cut—highlights the contrast.

Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee also weighed in, suggesting DeChambeau is chasing YouTube stars like Grant Horvat instead of focusing on elite competition. “He just doesn’t want it enough,” Chamblee claimed, implying a loss of competitive fire. The remarks add to a growing chorus of doubt about DeChambeau’s commitment to the sport’s highest level.

LIV Golf Contract and Content‑Creator Role

DeChambeau is still signed to LIV for the remainder of the calendar year, but the league’s waning financial support raises questions about his long‑term plans. He has worked closely with LIV CEO Scott O’Neil on business initiatives and investment pitches, voicing optimism about capital inflows. “I think this has a lot of opportunity,” he said at a recent LIV event in early June.

Outside of tournament play, his YouTube presence has lost some shine. Both The Open Championship and the Tour Championship have declined to host “Creator Classics” that would showcase YouTube golf personalities. This suggests the new‑media spotlight may be dimming for a player who once blended entertainment with competition.

New Club Experiment Ahead of the Open

At Royal Birkdale this week GolfWRX spotted a fresh set of irons in DeChambeau’s bag, believed to be the latest version of his 3D‑printed clubs first tried at the Masters. The club switch comes as he prepares for a tricky links setup, a strategic move that could redefine his game. The visual of the new equipment has already sparked speculation about a potential gear‑based turnaround.

DeChambeau declined to hold a full media session before the Open, opting to let his clubs speak for themselves. He will tee off at 4:58 a.m. Eastern on Thursday, grouped with Scottie Scheffler and Tyrrell Hatton. In roughly 36 hours, the results will show whether he is back on track or continuing his steep decline.

With every major cut he accumulates, DeChambeau inches closer to becoming “the only multiple‑major winner under the age of 40” to miss all four cuts in a single season. The Open Championship will serve as the next litmus test for his renewed resolve. Whether he rebounds with a spectacular finish or continues his long, slow slide will define the rest of his campaign. The next 36 hours could be the most telling chapter yet in a season full of uncertainty.