McIlroy lashes out at DeChambeau for ‘holding the Open hostage’ over penalty row
The Guardian • • sports
Key Points:
- Rory McIlroy criticized Bryson DeChambeau for "holding the tournament hostage" after DeChambeau was penalized two strokes for improving his swing path by stepping on long grass during the second round of the Open.
- McIlroy expressed no sympathy for DeChambeau, suggesting the penalty was justified and describing the situation as "performative" and attention-seeking, which disrupted players and officials.
- The delayed announcement of third-round tee times, caused by the controversy, frustrated several players including Marco Penge and Justin Thomas, who highlighted the inconvenience of late scheduling.
- DeChambeau briefly threatened to withdraw but confirmed he would continue playing, while avoiding media engagement and practicing late into the evening.
- In contrast, fellow American Max Homa defended DeChambeau, disputing the ruling and asserting that DeChambeau would never cheat in golf.
