LIV Golf has released an official statement after Crushers GC captain Bryson DeChambeau was handed a controversial two-shot penalty during the second round of the 2026 Open Championship, backing its star player while expressing confidence that he acted with integrity.
The incident unfolded at Royal Birkdale after R&A officials ruled that DeChambeau had improved the conditions affecting his stroke while assessing his ball in the rough on the fifth hole. The decision resulted in a two-shot penalty, changing his impressive second-round 66 into a 68 and dropping him down the leaderboard. The ruling sparked immediate debate among fans, players and golf analysts, with many questioning whether the punishment matched the circumstances.
In its statement, LIV Golf reaffirmed its support for DeChambeau, praising his professionalism and competitive spirit throughout the championship. The league said Bryson has consistently demonstrated respect for the rules of the game and noted that while it accepts the governing body’s authority to enforce the Rules of Golf, it stands firmly behind one of its biggest stars.
The statement also highlighted DeChambeau’s commitment to competing at the highest level, describing him as an outstanding ambassador for LIV Golf whose passion and dedication continue to inspire fans around the world. LIV Golf added that it looks forward to seeing him continue his challenge at Royal Birkdale despite the setback.
DeChambeau, visibly frustrated by the ruling, argued his case with officials before eventually accepting the penalty. Reports indicated he returned to the scene of the incident to explain why he believed he had done nothing wrong, insisting he had no intention of improving his lie. The controversy has since become one of the biggest talking points of this year’s Open Championship.
The penalty not only cost DeChambeau two shots but also significantly affected his position on the leaderboard at a crucial stage of the tournament. Despite the disappointment, the two-time U.S. Open champion remains determined to fight through the weekend and continue his pursuit of another major title.
With LIV Golf publicly throwing its support behind DeChambeau, the debate surrounding the R&A’s decision is unlikely to disappear anytime soon. As the championship progresses, all eyes will remain on whether the American can overcome the controversial setback and mount another remarkable comeback on one of golf’s biggest stages.