Bryson DeChambeau has broken his silence following Rory McIlroy’s latest comments, admitting it is “obvious” that the four-time major champion is not particularly fond of him despite the pair continuing to compete at golf’s biggest events.
The LIV Golf star has once again found himself in the spotlight following his two-shot penalty at The Open Championship, a ruling that sparked widespread debate among players and fans alike.
McIlroy was among those who believed the R&A made the correct decision, suggesting DeChambeau’s reaction after the ruling created unnecessary drama. While the Northern Irishman did not hold back in sharing his opinion, DeChambeau initially chose not to respond directly.
“I have not heard anything,” DeChambeau said when asked about McIlroy’s criticism following his third round.
However, speaking later about his relationship with McIlroy, the two-time U.S. Open champion acknowledged the tension between them.
“It’s obvious he doesn’t like me,” DeChambeau said, while making it clear that he has no intention of escalating the situation further.
The controversy began during the second round at Royal Birkdale when the R&A ruled that DeChambeau had inadvertently improved the area of his intended swing on the fifth hole, resulting in a two-shot penalty under Rule 8.1.
Following the decision, DeChambeau expressed his frustration in a message on social media but accepted that the ruling would stand.
“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,” he wrote.
The R&A has continued to defend its decision, explaining that Rule 8.1 applies even if the improvement to the conditions affecting a stroke is unintentional.
Despite the criticism and ongoing discussion surrounding the incident, DeChambeau has remained focused on his performance rather than engaging in a public back-and-forth with McIlroy.
The latest exchange adds another chapter to one of golf’s most closely watched rivalries. The relationship between the two has been strained for several years, particularly following DeChambeau’s move to LIV Golf and their dramatic battle at the 2024 U.S. Open.
While neither player appears interested in turning the disagreement into a war of words, their differing views continue to attract significant attention whenever they compete in the same event.
As The Open Championship continues, DeChambeau’s priority remains chasing the Claret Jug, even as questions about his relationship with McIlroy and the fallout from the penalty continue to dominate headlines.