McIlroy Backs DeChambeau's 2-Stroke Open Penalty, Deepening 2026 Golf Feud
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 24
McIlroy Backs DeChambeau's 2-Stroke Open Penalty, Deepening 2026 Golf Feud
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 24
Summary
Rory McIlroy said Bryson DeChambeau deserved the two-stroke penalty at The Open, adding he is "not particularly fond" of him and calling much of his behavior "performative."
The criticism followed DeChambeau's penalized second round at Royal Birkdale, where officials ruled he improved the area around his backswing after what had appeared to be a 4-under 66.
McIlroy also faulted DeChambeau for allegedly threatening to withdraw in protest, saying it held up players, volunteers and tournament operations while the ruling was resolved.
Other top players struck a softer tone: Xander Schauffele defended DeChambeau, and Scottie Scheffler said he was not a cheater while downplaying personal rivalries in golf.
The clash adds to a long-running McIlroy-DeChambeau split shaped by LIV Golf, Ryder Cup allegiances and DeChambeau's embrace of golf entertainment beyond the PGA Tour.