Scottie Scheffler hints at frustration over Bryson DeChambeau penalty at The Open

Scottie Scheffler refused to detail his feelings about Bryson DeChambeau’s two-shot penalty at The Open Championship on Friday at Royal Birkdale: yet his words still carried weight.

What happened?

Bryson DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty on Friday at The Open for improving his lie on the fifth hole during the second round. Scheffler, playing in the same group, was asked about the incident on Saturday. He called the penalty “unfair” in a roundabout way, saying he had “a ton to say” but wouldn’t share it publicly while the tournament was still on.

Why it matters for Scottie Scheffler

Scheffler’s reluctance to criticize DeChambeau outright may stem from his close friendship with Sam Burns. Burns holds a two-shot lead going into Sunday’s final round at The Open. If Burns wins, Scheffler wants the focus on Burns’ play: not on what DeChambeau could have done without the penalty.

DeChambeau’s penalty has dominated headlines all three days at Royal Birkdale. Burns is the clear favorite right now, four shots ahead of DeChambeau. Scheffler’s muted reaction contrasts sharply with Rory McIlroy’s public criticism of DeChambeau’s antics.

What Scheffler’s comments really mean

Scheffler’s exact words were careful but telling. “I do have some thoughts,” he said. “I don’t really feel like now is the time or place for me to comment.” He stressed he’s focused on his own game and needs to shoot a low round on Sunday. Yet his refusal to dismiss the penalty outright suggests he’s not indifferent to its impact.

What comes next?

Burns leads by two heading into the final round at The Open. Scheffler, meanwhile, remains focused on his own round. If Burns wins, the Claret Jug will go to a player Scheffler admires deeply. The tournament’s narrative, though, keeps circling back to DeChambeau’s penalty and what it might have cost him.