DeChambeau Draws Crowd Support at British Open Despite Friday Rules Controversy

SOUTHPORT, England — Bryson DeChambeau commanded energetic support from galleries throughout Saturday’s third round at Royal Birkdale, engaging fans with high-fives and selfies as he moved across the links layout. The American competitor appeared unbothered by Friday’s contentious two-shot penalty and subsequent rules review, instead drawing momentum from the enthusiastic crowds massed along the fairways.

Spectators greeted DeChambeau with vocal encouragement from the opening tee, with galleries offering spirited cheers during his introduction. Despite occasional lighthearted jabs from some onlookers, the crowd’s predominant mood favored the high-profile golfer, who shot 69 and remained four strokes adrift of the leader.

DeChambeau responded to the atmosphere with charisma and theatrical showmanship. When his opening drive landed near spectators, he quipped about a “loose impediment” before removing a pine cone, eliciting laughter from observers. His exaggerated practice strokes and animated demeanor generated audible reactions throughout the round, particularly referencing Friday’s disputed incident at the fifth hole.

At the par-4 ninth, fans urged DeChambeau toward his driver. He obliged with characteristic theatricality, deliberately withdrawing the club before striking a 354-yard drive that triggered rousing applause from nearby galleries.

Sky Sports commentator Paul McGinley predicted before Saturday that adversity could energize DeChambeau’s play. His substantial YouTube subscriber base of nearly 2.8 million appeared well represented among spectators, who regularly offered high-fives as he proceeded through the course.

DeChambeau has stated his YouTube channel’s expansion carries equal weight to tournament success. Victory in the championship remains his stated objective, and he positioned himself competitively after birdie conversions at the 15th and 17th holes, though a closing bogey limited his progress.