Bryson DeChambeau was penalized two strokes during the second round of The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale after a dispute with rules officials over whether he improved his lie on the fifth hole. The incident led to a heated exchange, with DeChambeau initially refusing to confirm if he would play the third round before ultimately accepting the penalty and continuing the tournament.
DeChambeau, who shot a second-round 66 before the penalty, was taken back to the fifth hole to discuss the incident. After a prolonged argument, his score was adjusted to 68, placing him in a tie for fifth. He later downplayed the incident, stating he was 'having a great night' as he prepared for the next round.
The controversy follows comments from three-time Open winner Nick Faldo, who criticized DeChambeau's strategy on links golf. Faldo later clarified that he respects DeChambeau but believes the American lacks strategic adaptability on traditional courses. DeChambeau defended his approach, calling his play 'incredibly strategic' during his opening round.