Bryson DeChambeau received a two-stroke penalty during the second round of the 154th Open Championship on July 18, 2026 [1].
The penalty creates a significant swing in the leaderboard for one of the tournament's top contenders. In a high-stakes environment like the Open, two strokes can be the difference between a lead and a struggle to remain in contention.
The infraction occurred at the Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England [2]. Officials determined that DeChambeau stepped on long grass on the fifth hole, which is a breach of the Rules of Golf because it improves the lie of the ball [3].
Despite the penalty, DeChambeau recorded a second-round score of 66 [4]. After the adjustment, he sits at seven-under par, which puts him one shot behind the current leader [4].
DeChambeau responded to the ruling with a mix of frustration and determination. He said the setback would serve as a catalyst for his performance in the remaining rounds.
"It fires me up," DeChambeau said [5].
He also said the situation has changed his mental approach to the competition. "I've got a chip on my shoulder now," DeChambeau said [6].
Reports regarding his future in the tournament have been inconsistent. Some sources said he threatened to withdraw from the event, while other reports said he refused to confirm whether he would continue playing [7].
“"It fires me up."”
This penalty highlights the strict adherence to traditional rules at the Open Championship, where environmental factors like long grass are heavily regulated. While DeChambeau remains within striking distance of the lead, the psychological impact of a post-round penalty often defines a player's momentum in major championships.
