Bryson DeChambeau reportedly made contentious remarks toward media members and had a reporter removed from the practice area at the LIV Golf event in Indianapolis this week. The incidents occurred as LIV Golf faces an uncertain future, with its Saudi Public Investment Fund backing set to conclude after the 2026 season.
According to Golf.com, DeChambeau addressed reporters gathered at The Club at Chatham Hills, calling them "the mafia" and adding, "You guys love talking s–t." While Golf.com noted DeChambeau was "mostly joking," the situation escalated later.
Ryan French, known for the Monday Q Info account, confirmed he was asked to leave the driving range by a member of DeChambeau's team. French stated he was simply observing DeChambeau practice, with no unusual activity occurring. DeChambeau later called French to discuss the incident, a conversation French described as "off the record" but appreciated.
DeChambeau's demeanor comes as LIV Golf faces significant operational and financial questions. The purse for the LIV Indianapolis event has been reduced from $20 million to $10.1 million. Additionally, the LIV Team Championship, originally scheduled for later this month in Michigan, has been canceled, marking the final event of the 2026 season for the circuit.
DeChambeau, a prominent figure in LIV Golf, is coming off a T-38 finish at LIV New York and struggled in major championships this year, missing the cut in three of the four events.