Bryson DeChambeau engaged in another confrontation with Open Championship officials on Saturday, just hours after shooting a third-round 69 that placed him four strokes behind leader Sam Burns. The incident occurred on the same day that Rory McIlroy publicly criticized DeChambeau's actions from Friday.
Following his round, the 32-year-old golfer proceeded directly to the tournament offices, where he was observed in a discussion with R&A chief executive Mark Darbon. Sources indicate DeChambeau made an unusual request to be given his second-round scorecard, which was denied. The purpose of this request remains unclear, especially as his scorecard from Friday was already amended from a 66 to a 68 due to an "inadvertent" improvement of his lie on the fifth hole.
DeChambeau's performance on Saturday saw him move to six under par, tying for sixth place. He was occasionally subjected to heckling from the crowd during his round, with some spectators shouting "cheat," echoing the controversy from the previous day.
McIlroy, ranked world No. 2, had previously voiced strong disapproval of DeChambeau's handling of the rules situation. He stated he was not inclined to defend DeChambeau and described the American's actions as holding the tournament "hostage." McIlroy recounted watching the incident unfold with other players, noting that DeChambeau's movement before his shot "didn't seem right." He added that the two-shot penalty was "justified, for sure," whether the infraction was "careless or intentional."
McIlroy also commented on the disruption caused by the situation, which forced players, volunteers, and officials to wait for updated tee times on Saturday morning. He felt it was "not a great look" for the tournament.
DeChambeau himself played to the crowd on the 18th hole before heading to the officials' offices.