Why was Bryson DeChambeau penalized at The Open?

Bryson DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty for inadvertently improving his backswing area on the fifth hole during the second round of The Open Championship.

What action did Jon Rahm take that could have led to a penalty?

Jon Rahm threw his club on the 15th tee after a wayward shot during his second round at The Open, for which he received a warning.

Have other players been penalized for similar actions?

Yes, Joaquin Niemann received a two-shot penalty at the US Open for throwing his club, indicating a stricter enforcement of rules regarding player conduct in major championships.

MajorsBy the GolfOdds Editorial TeamAug 5, 2026, 1:09 PM ET

Rahm Avoids Penalty at The Open While DeChambeau Docked Two Shots

Jon Rahm received only a warning for a club-throwing incident at The Open, a stark contrast to Bryson DeChambeau's two-shot penalty for an inadvertent rules infraction.

Bryson DeChambeau incurred a two-shot penalty during the second round of The Open Championship, significantly impacting his standing. The infraction occurred on the fifth hole when DeChambeau inadvertently improved his backswing area. This penalty caused him to drop from seven-under to five-under par, placing him three shots behind the leader heading into the weekend. Fellow LIV Golf competitor Jon Rahm currently sits one shot further back.

Rahm, however, could be considered fortunate to have avoided a similar fate. During his second round at Royal Birkdale, Rahm was observed throwing his club on the 15th tee following a wayward shot. Despite the action, officials issued only a warning, allowing him to continue his round without a stroke penalty.

This outcome for Rahm stands in contrast to recent enforcement of rules regarding player conduct. Major championships have demonstrated a stricter stance on such behavior, as evidenced by Joaquin Niemann receiving a two-shot penalty at this year's US Open for throwing his club at Shinnecock Hills. Rahm himself stated after his round that he was not concerned about a penalty, but DeChambeau's penalty later in the day highlighted the potential for severe consequences.

Looking at current markets, Bryson DeChambeau is priced at +550 (Bovada), while Jon Rahm is listed at +572 (Pinnacle). Joaquin Niemann, who faced a similar penalty for club-throwing at the US Open, is currently available at +1170 (Pinnacle). The contrasting outcomes at The Open for Rahm and DeChambeau underscore the fine margins and the impact of rules interpretations on a player's tournament trajectory and market perception.

Compare the odds

The Open Championship odds →Jon Rahm Bryson DeChambeau Joaquin Niemann

FAQ

Why was Bryson DeChambeau penalized at The Open?: Bryson DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty for inadvertently improving his backswing area on the fifth hole during the second round of The Open Championship.
What action did Jon Rahm take that could have led to a penalty?: Jon Rahm threw his club on the 15th tee after a wayward shot during his second round at The Open, for which he received a warning.
Have other players been penalized for similar actions?: Yes, Joaquin Niemann received a two-shot penalty at the US Open for throwing his club, indicating a stricter enforcement of rules regarding player conduct in major championships.