Overview
- R&A officials reviewed television footage and on Friday assessed Bryson DeChambeau a two‑stroke penalty under Rule 8.1a for trampling long rough behind his ball on the par‑4 fifth, a ruling the governing body says applies even without intent.
- DeChambeau loudly contested the call, walked back to the fifth to plead his case, refused to sign his scorecard for an extended period and, according to multiple reports, threatened to involve President Donald Trump during the dispute.
- Tournament chiefs denied any White House contact and refused the request to involve the president, the penalty stood and the two shots changed DeChambeau’s round from 66 to 68 and his standing on the leaderboard.
- The argument delayed the release of third‑round tee times for about two hours and left players and officials sharply divided over acceptable conduct when contesting rulings.
- The incident has sharpened scrutiny of two trends at majors: use of broadcast replays to enforce rules and how high‑profile political ties may influence perceptions of fairness and governance going forward.