Why did Bryson DeChambeau receive a penalty at The Open?

Bryson DeChambeau received a two-stroke penalty during the second round of The Open Championship for affecting his lie on the fifth hole by stomping on the grass near his ball.

What was Rory McIlroy's reaction to the penalty?

Rory McIlroy called the penalty "pretty obvious" and "justified," stating he had no doubt DeChambeau affected his lie. He also accused DeChambeau of holding The Open "hostage."

Did other players agree with Rory McIlroy's stance?

While Rory McIlroy stated there was a consensus among players that the penalty was justified, Max Homa reportedly defended DeChambeau, and some other golfers seemed to give him the benefit of the doubt.

PlayersBy the GolfOdds Editorial TeamJul 18, 2026, 2:01 PM ET

McIlroy Calls DeChambeau Penalty "Obvious," Reigniting Rivalry at The Open

Rory McIlroy offered pointed criticism of Bryson DeChambeau's two-stroke penalty at Royal Birkdale, suggesting a renewed tension between the two golfers heading into the final round.

Bryson DeChambeau received a two-stroke penalty during the second round of The Open Championship, a decision that has ignited significant discussion and drawn sharp comments from Rory McIlroy. The infraction occurred on the fifth hole at Royal Birkdale when DeChambeau was deemed to have affected his lie by stomping on the grass near his ball in deep rough. Following his round, DeChambeau engaged in nearly an hour-long discussion with R&A rules officials, which included a return to the scene of the infraction and a visit to the rules tent, before the penalty was officially applied. Before the penalty, DeChambeau had been one shot behind leader Lucas Herbert, who is currently priced at +2500 (Bovada).

Rory McIlroy, the 2014 Open champion, did not hold back in his assessment of the situation. He stated that the penalty was "pretty obvious" and expressed "no doubt" that DeChambeau had influenced his lie. McIlroy, who watched the incident unfold from the players' lounge, noted that many players immediately recognized the potential infringement, thinking "That didn't seem right." He further characterized DeChambeau's actions and the subsequent discussion as holding The Open Championship "hostage," adding that he was "not fond of him." McIlroy also indicated a broader consensus among competitors that the ruling was "justified."

While McIlroy was unequivocal in his criticism, other golfers offered a more measured response. Max Homa, currently listed at +72500 (DraftKings), reportedly defended DeChambeau, and some players appeared to give him the benefit of the doubt regarding the incident. However, McIlroy's strong remarks underscore a potential resurgence of tension between him and DeChambeau, adding another layer to their competitive dynamic that could extend into future tournaments.

This public exchange could significantly influence the mental approach of both golfers as they navigate the final rounds of the tournament. DeChambeau, currently priced at +1595 (Pinnacle), faces the challenge of moving past the penalty and the associated scrutiny while maintaining focus. McIlroy, whose odds are +19166 (Pinnacle), has made his stance clear, potentially fueling his own competitive drive. The renewed rivalry adds an intriguing narrative to the tournament's conclusion, with both players aiming for a strong finish.

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The Open Championship odds →Max Homa Rory McIlroy Bryson DeChambeau Lucas Herbert

FAQ

Why did Bryson DeChambeau receive a penalty at The Open?: Bryson DeChambeau received a two-stroke penalty during the second round of The Open Championship for affecting his lie on the fifth hole by stomping on the grass near his ball.
What was Rory McIlroy's reaction to the penalty?: Rory McIlroy called the penalty "pretty obvious" and "justified," stating he had no doubt DeChambeau affected his lie. He also accused DeChambeau of holding The Open "hostage."
Did other players agree with Rory McIlroy's stance?: While Rory McIlroy stated there was a consensus among players that the penalty was justified, Max Homa reportedly defended DeChambeau, and some other golfers seemed to give him the benefit of the doubt.