Bryson DeChambeau sought President Trump's help after penalty at Open Championship

Bryson DeChambeau finished tied for 14th at the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale after shooting a 4-under total. His score was affected by a two-stroke penalty incurred in the second round when he stepped on tall grass during his backswing. Following the ruling, DeChambeau declined to sign his scorecard and, according to golf writer Geoff Shackelford, contacted President Donald Trump to request assistance in challenging the penalty.

"Sources with knowledge of the thirty-minute discussion said DeChambeau wanted the President to join a campaign against the eventual two-stroke penalty," Shackelford wrote.

Trump denied the request, and Mark Darbon, chief executive of the R&A, said he had not been contacted by the former president. The incident follows previous instances where professional golfers have referenced Trump in unrelated matters.

DeChambeau's appeal did not alter the penalty, and he finished the tournament four strokes behind the leader.