Story perspectives

DeChambeau Penalized Two Strokes, Drops to +5; Herbert Leads

7/18/2026

Summary

Moir Penalises DeChambeau

R&A executive Grant Moir penalised Bryson DeChambeau two strokes at the Open Championship on July 17 2026 for stamping down rough grass to enlarge his backswing area.
The penalty dropped Bryson DeChambeau from seven-under to five-under.
Lucas Herbert of Australia led after posting a record-equalling 62, moving to eight-under.
Bryson DeChambeau protested by mimicking his routine, then announced that agent Brett Falkoff would decide Saturday morning whether to continue.

Summary

Burns 62

The cut at 1-over 141 eliminated England’s Matt Fitzpatrick (world No. 3) and Justin Rose (world No. 10).
Sam Burns, who became a father on July 3, shot a 62 with long birdies on 16 and 17 and a bunker finish on 18.
Scottie Scheffler posted a 68 with a 12-foot par putt, staying four shots off the lead as sixteen players remained within four shots of the leader.

Summary

DeChambeau Faces Penalty

Officials held a spirited discussion with Bryson DeChambeau on the fifth fairway near 9 pm, showing R&A enforcement.
After the penalty talk, DeChambeau and his caddy left the director’s office in two carts, weaving through a chanting crowd at Royal Birkdale.
Spectators repeatedly chanted his name, indicating strong fan support despite the controversy.
Broadcasters noted his LIV Golf affiliation, a rare LIV-player appearance at a major championship.

History

Historical Context

LIV Golf, launched in 2021 and funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, held its inaugural event on 9 June 2022 at the Centurion Club. The PGA Tour warned players of bans, and the two-stroke penalty to LIV affiliate Bryson DeChambeau at the 2026 Open shows the ongoing regulatory push, continuing to shape professional golf.

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Moir Penalises DeChambeau

R&A executive Grant Moir penalised Bryson DeChambeau two strokes at the Open Championship on July 17 2026 for stamping down rough grass to enlarge his backswing area.
The penalty dropped Bryson DeChambeau from seven-under to five-under.
Lucas Herbert of Australia led after posting a record-equalling 62, moving to eight-under.
Bryson DeChambeau protested by mimicking his routine, then announced that agent Brett Falkoff would decide Saturday morning whether to continue.

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