Bryson DeChambeau entered the Royal Birkdale clubhouse tied for second place during the Open Championship. However, his game took a turn when rules officials approached him about a potential breach during play on the fifth hole. The two-time U.S. Open winner found himself in a heated discussion with officials and his caddie, near where he had taken his second shot.
Photographs captured DeChambeau speaking with a rules official after day two of the 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England, on July 17, 2026. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
DeChambeau had discovered his ball in the high fescue and appeared to have flattened the rough behind him, which might have improved his next shot’s lie. During the ensuing conversation, DeChambeau was animated, reenacting his pre-shot routine and gesturing. He argued in the clubhouse that the trampled area was not aligned with his swing path.
Additional photos show Bryson DeChambeau riding in a buggy with an official after the second round. (Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)
Despite his protests, officials decided to impose a two-stroke penalty. DeChambeau, who had initially scored a four-under 68, saw his score adjusted to a 70, putting him in a tie for fifth place at 5 under par. Reports also indicate that he quickly moved to the practice range, presumably to process the incident.
One standout performance during the tournament was Lucas Herbert. By shooting a 62 on Friday, he tied the all-time lowest score recorded in a major round, firmly establishing himself as the solo leader.