Bryson DeChambeau Posts Lowest Open First Round, Silencing Critics at Royal Birkdale

Bryson DeChambeau delivered a strong performance in the first round of The Open at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, recording a 3-under 67. This score, which included five birdies, positioned him just one stroke off the early lead. It represents DeChambeau's lowest first-round score in the championship's history and only the second time he has broken par in the opening round across his nine starts at The Open.

The 32-year-old's impressive start stands in stark contrast to his recent major championship record. DeChambeau has missed the cut at all three majors this season, including the Masters, PGA Championship, and U.S. Open. Should he fail to make the cut this week, he would become the first multiple-major winner under the age of 40 to miss all four major cuts in a single season. His 67 at Royal Birkdale was also 11 strokes better than his opening round at Royal Portrush a year ago.

This strong showing offers a potential turning point for the two-time U.S. Open champion, whose form had declined since a period two years ago that saw him claim a U.S. Open title and achieve six top-10 finishes across eight majors. With his current price at +2200 (FanDuel), DeChambeau's early play suggests he might be poised to contend and reverse his recent trend of major championship disappointments.