Bryson DeChambeau Penalized at Royal Birkdale Open Championship

Bryson DeChambeau entered the Royal Birkdale clubhouse tied for second place during the Open Championship. However, his day took a turn when rules officials questioned a potential violation on the fifth hole. The two-time U.S. Open winner was visibly displeased.

After hitting his second shot on the fifth hole, DeChambeau engaged in an intense discussion with several officials and his caddie. The issue was whether he had improved his lie by flattening the rough with his feet, after finding his ball in tall fescue.

Bryson DeChambeau speaks with a rules official after day two at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England.

DeChambeau vigorously defended himself, demonstrating his pre-shot routine and insisting the affected fescue wasn’t in his swing path. Despite his appeals, officials decided to issue a two-stroke penalty. As a result, DeChambeau’s score changed from a four-under 68 to a two-under 70, placing him in a tie for fifth at 5 under.

Following the decision, DeChambeau headed to the practice range, seemingly to alleviate his frustration. Meanwhile, Lucas Herbert claimed the solo lead with a record-tying 62.