Bryson DeChambeau Penalty: 2-Shot Ruling Hits During 164th Open Championship

The R&A issued a two-stroke Bryson DeChambeau penalty following his second round for improving his lie in the tall grass on the fifth hole.

The R&A assessed a two-stroke Bryson DeChambeau penalty following the completion of his second round at the 164th Open Championship. This ruling directly impacted the golfer's momentum during his Day 2 performance. Officials determined that the infraction occurred on the fifth hole of the course prior to his second shot. The penalty was issued after allegations surfaced that the player improved his lie while situated in the tall grass.

R&A Rules Infraction on Fifth Hole

Tournament officials focused their investigation on the specific conditions surrounding the fifth hole. The R&A concluded that the player’s actions in the tall grass constituted a violation of the rules of golf. This two-shot addition to his score was finalized after the conclusion of the second round of play. Consequently, the surge DeChambeau established during the middle of the tournament faced a significant setback.

Impact on Second Round Performance

The two-stroke penalty stalled the upward trajectory DeChambeau had maintained throughout his Friday appearance. By adding two shots to his card, the governing body altered his standing in the 164th Open Championship field. This specific ruling addressed conduct involving the physical state of the rough before a stroke was executed.

Tall Grass Ruling Details

The allegation centered on the manipulation of the playing surface before the second shot was taken on the fifth. The R&A maintains strict oversight regarding how players interact with natural hazards and thick vegetation. Because the lie was deemed to have been improved, the mandatory two-stroke deduction was applied to the official scorecard. This decision remains the definitive ruling on the player's second-round conduct.