Scheffler Defends DeChambeau, Denies Cheating Allegations After Open Penalty

Scottie Scheffler was initially reluctant to discuss Bryson DeChambeau’s incident at the British Open on Saturday.

However, on Sunday, after tying for fourth place at Royal Birkdale — three shots behind winner Ryan Fox — Scheffler chose to speak out in support of DeChambeau.

“All I’ll say is that Bryson and I have known each other for a long time, and while he is many things, he is certainly not a cheater,” DeChambeau stated. “I have never observed him cheating, whether in a putting contest, a chipping contest, or any other amateur round.”

DeChambeau received a penalty after his second round for improving his lie after his ball landed in thick rough on the fifth hole at Royal Birkdale. The sanction was applied only after a highly dramatic confrontation between DeChambeau and the rules officials on the course.

DeChambeau reportedly considered withdrawing from the event and spent the evening hitting practice balls on the range until darkness fell.

He ultimately completed the championship as scheduled, finishing tied for 14th at 4‑under par. Prior to the penalty, he was one stroke away from a top‑six finish.

Despite the controversy surrounding the ruling, DeChambeau’s behavior after Friday’s second round drew criticism from several players, including Rory McIlroy, who agreed with the decision.

McIlroy said, “I’m not going to pretend to defend Bryson. I’m not particularly fond of him, and I believe much of the criticism is performative and driven by a desire for attention.”

He added, “To hold the tournament hostage like that, and to have volunteers, players, and everyone waiting for him to leave, it didn’t reflect well on anyone.”

Scheffler, the world’s top‑ranked golfer, was less emphatic about the penalty than McIlroy.

He noted, “From the camera angle, he may have been a little careless with his ball, but I don’t think he acted intentionally.”

DeChambeau’s performance was his strongest showing at a major this season; he missed the cut in his first three majors and didn’t post a sub‑par round until his opening round at Royal Birkdale.

Regarding future enforcement, Scheffler suggested the sport should become “a bit stricter” in applying the rules uniformly. He pointed out that high‑profile players like DeChambeau receive greater media attention, making scrutiny more intense.

He continued, “We need to return to the traditions of the game and perhaps enforce the rules more rigorously, though I acknowledge it’s a delicate balance.”

Finally, he reiterated, “Bryson is someone I have known for a long time, and I maintain he is not a cheater.”

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