British Open 2026: The surreal scene at Birkdale after Bryson DeChambeau's penalty
Bryson DeChambeau faces a controversial two-stroke penalty at the 2026 British Open at Royal Birkdale. The incident has caused significant tension between the golfer and R&A officials, leading to speculation about potential rules violations.
Why it matters
High-profile rules controversies in major sporting events significantly impact the integrity and public perception of professional golf.
SOUTHPORT, England — It is comically dark because it is 10:20 p.m., the only light spilling from a video board 30 yards to the left, and a soft glow from an orange fingernail moon a million miles to the right. Silent, too, despite seven members of his entourage ensconcing Bryson DeChambeau on the range and a dozen or so media camped behind him—quiet enough that you can hear the tent roofs straining not to cave under the wind. The only others here are four fans who've snuck into the grandstands to catch the show, and a security guard who looks confused by all the fuss.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in