Bryson DeChambeau was penalized two strokes during the second round of the 2026 Open Championship for stepping on long grass behind his ball on the fifth hole, which officials ruled improved the line of his swing [1, 2, 3]. The penalty changed his second-round score from 66 to 68 and dropped him from second place to a tie for 14th, his best major finish of the year [1, 2, 3].
DeChambeau angrily disputed the ruling, revisiting the scene with R&A officials in an attempt to overturn the penalty [1, 2, 3]. According to golf writer Geoff Shackelford, sources with knowledge of a 30-minute discussion said DeChambeau threatened to call President Donald Trump to intervene on his behalf [3]. Trump has a history of lobbying on sports controversies, including efforts to get FIFA to review a red card suspension earlier in 2026 [1, 2, 3]. However, there is no evidence DeChambeau actually contacted Trump, and tournament officials have not confirmed any such communication occurred [1, 2, 3].
The penalty proceedings also delayed the tournament schedule. DeChambeau refused to sign his second-round scorecard immediately and delayed confirming he would continue playing, causing a nearly two-hour hold on third-round tee times, pushing them close to 11 p.m. [2].
Rory McIlroy criticized DeChambeau's conduct, stating, "Yeah, look, I won't pretend to be up here and defend Bryson. I'm not particularly fond of him," and adding, "The penalty was entirely correct." [1, 2]
After the Open, DeChambeau remained in the UK to compete in the LIV Golf event at the JCB Golf and Country Club [1].
Reports about the threat to involve Trump emerged on July 20, two days after the penalty incident and argument [1, 2, 3]. The controversy surrounding the penalty and DeChambeau's reaction remained a major talking point from the tournament.
