Bryson DeChambeau opens up about leaving The Open after a tough two-stroke penalty
Bryson DeChambeau has shared whether he plans to keep playing in the 154th Open after getting a two-stroke penalty.
On day two, Bryson shot an impressive four-under 66. But as he finished the round, officials talked about a possible rules violation.
After a long discussion, he was given a two-shot penalty for stepping on long grass near his ball on the fifth hole.
At 32 years old, Bryson was found to have broken Rule 8.1. This rule says players can’t make changes that improve the conditions around their ball, like the ball’s position, their stance, swing area, or line of play before their next shot.
There was a heated debate, and Bryson looked upset and frustrated with the decision.
Grant Moir, the R&A’s executive director of governance, explained: “Bryson was penalized for accidentally improving the area of his backswing on the fifth hole during his second shot. Rule 8.1 stops players from changing conditions to gain an advantage, even if it’s by accident, like in Bryson’s case.”
Later that evening, there were questions about whether Bryson would keep playing, with reports saying he was unsure. But Bryson took to social media and seemed to confirm he would continue.
He posted on X: “Obviously disappointed with the ruling. I don’t agree with it, but it is what it is. This fires me up. Onto the weekend. Let’s get it.”
Jon Rahm also faced a possible penalty after throwing his club in anger in the second round but only got a warning.
“I didn’t think about it until I saw the official on 17,” Rahm, just one shot behind Bryson, said. “I shouldn’t have reacted that way, but I did. It felt like everyone was watching every hole. I get it. I had a moment.”
Australia’s Lucas Herbert is leading as day three begins after a record-tying 62.