Open 2026: Bryson DeChambeau given two-shot penalty in dramatic scenes after second round at Royal Birkdale

Bryson DeChambeau’s bid to win The Open has taken a hit after he was given a two-shot penalty on a dramatic evening at Royal Birkdale.

The American looked to have lifted himself to one shot off the lead on seven under par with a four-under 66 in round two, but was whisked away by rules officials when he walked off the course to discuss a rules infringement.

The American was accused of trampling on long grass close to his ball on the fifth hole.

After a long discussion with Open officials, it was confirmed he had been given a two-shot penalty for “inadvertently improving his lie”, pushing him back to five under par and three shots behind leader Lucas Herbert.

DeChambeau’s participation in the rest of the tournament remains in doubt after the two-time US Open champion, who has never won The Open, refused to confirm he would definitely play in Saturday’s third round.

He refused to answer questions when he walked past the assembled media after emerging from the recorders’ office, where he spent more than 20 minutes discussing the issue with officials including R&A chief executive Mark Darbon.

All he said was: “Are you guys having a great night? I’m having a great night.”

DeChambeau then added that he was off to “hit some balls” and headed off to the driving range, where he posed for a selfie with fans before talking to his team on the practice area.