Bryson DeChambeau reportedly asked former President Donald Trump to intervene on his behalf after receiving a two-stroke penalty during the 2026 Open Championship. The request came after DeChambeau was penalized for stomping on tall grass near his ball, which is considered an illegal move by rules officials.
Sources familiar with the situation told golf writer Geoff Shackelford that DeChambeau wanted Trump to join a campaign against the penalty, which ultimately altered his score from 66 to 68. This request followed an instance where DeChambeau was granted special dispensation to return to the area where he had stomped in the fescue rough during his backswing.
Trump reportedly denied DeChambeau's request to step in. The White House had not immediately responded to a request for comment.
DeChambeau, who has a close personal friendship with Trump, including playing golf together on LIV Golf star's YouTube channel, received the penalty during his second round at Royal Birkdale. The incident generated significant discussion throughout the tournament.
This situation drew a parallel to an earlier event involving Trump and international soccer. Trump had contacted FIFA president Gianni Infantino, another acquaintance, to inquire about a red card issued to U.S. Men's National Team striker Folarin Balogun during a tournament. The red card was suspended, allowing Balogun to play in a subsequent match, though the U.S. team was ultimately eliminated.
DeChambeau concluded the 2026 Open Championship tied for 14th place at 4-under par. The tournament was won by New Zealand's Ryan Fox, who secured his first major championship title.