Bryson DeChambeau finishes tied for 14th at The Open after penalty drama

Bryson DeChambeau’s dramatic week at The Open concluded with a quiet finish, as he carded a 2-over 72 in the final round at Royal Birkdale on Sunday, July 18, 2026. The American golfer, who entered the day four strokes off the lead, finished tied for 14th at 4 under par, six shots behind winner Ryan Fox.

What happened at The Open?

DeChambeau’s tournament began with controversy when three-time Open champion Nick Faldo criticized his links strategy as having 'zero clue.' Despite the criticism, DeChambeau opened with a strong 67. However, his second round was marred by a two-stroke penalty for 'inadvertently improving the area of his intended swing' in thigh-high fescue on the fifth hole. The penalty sparked a lengthy on-course dispute, with DeChambeau threatening to withdraw before eventually signing for a 68.

The drama continued into the weekend, with Rory McIlroy accusing DeChambeau of holding 'the tournament hostage' due to the delayed release of tee times. DeChambeau bogeyed his final hole in Round 3, shooting a 1-under 69. On Sunday, he struggled early, making a triple bogey at the 11th hole before finally birdieing the 13th. His final-round 72 left him six strokes behind Fox.

Why it matters for Bryson DeChambeau

This was DeChambeau’s first major championship where he avoided missing the cut in four consecutive attempts. However, his refusal to speak to media after any of his major rounds this year added to the off-course drama. His performance at Royal Birkdale highlighted both his resilience and his tendency to court controversy, whether through strategic criticism or on-course disputes.

What comes next?

DeChambeau is set to compete in the LIV Golf event at JCB Golf & Country Club in England this week. After a tumultuous Open, his focus will likely shift to regaining consistency in his game while managing the external noise that often follows him.