Scheffler defends DeChambeau after Open penalty controversy
Scottie Scheffler has strongly defended Bryson DeChambeau following the two-shot penalty that dominated headlines during the second round at Royal Birkdale. The world number one, speaking after his tied-fourth finish, insisted his longtime peer is “not a cheater” and said he has never witnessed anything suspicious in their many competitive encounters, from putting contests to amateur rounds. DeChambeau was penalized for improving his line of backswing in long grass at the par-four fifth, turning a bogey into a triple-bogey seven, and engaged in lengthy discussions with rules officials late into Friday evening.
Scheffler acknowledged that DeChambeau may have been “a touch careless” around his ball but emphasized he does not believe there was any intent to gain an advantage. The R&A accepted the American’s actions were unintentional, though Rory McIlroy criticized what he described as “performative” behavior that included a post-round discussion on the course and a late-night range session. DeChambeau declined media interviews throughout the tournament but posted on social media that the decision had “fired him up” to continue.
Beyond the specific incident, Scheffler questioned whether the sport needs stricter enforcement of its rules, particularly given the scrutiny that comes with television coverage. He noted that camera angles can distort perception and suggested some players may push boundaries further than they should when every shot is broadcast. The Masters champion called for a return to the traditions of the game and a more rigorous approach to policing infractions across the board.
Scheffler’s own week at Royal Birkdale featured a final-round charge that briefly brought him within one stroke of the lead before a bogey at the last dropped him to three behind winner Ryan Fox. He cited several unfortunate bounces, including a tee shot on the 13th that found a pot bunker and a drive on the 17th that should have found the fairway. Despite the disappointment, Scheffler said he competed well over four days, striking the ball nicely and staying patient throughout.