Bryson DeChambeau faced a contentious two-stroke penalty at The Open last week. President Donald Trump commented that it was a difficult decision. DeChambeau reportedly contemplated seeking Trump’s help after a heated discussion with rules officials at the event. Although Trump did not get involved, he sympathized with DeChambeau’s situation when questioned by the press.
“I thought the Bryson call was a tough call,” Trump said on Friday at the Oval Office. Trump’s support was clear as he referenced having seen many golfers searching for balls in the rough at various tournaments.
During his second round at The Open, DeChambeau was seen walking through the weeds and seemingly flattening the ground behind him to improve his position. Despite his appeal to the officials, the penalty stood. The incident drew comparisons to another sports controversy involving Trump. He previously influenced FIFA to review a red card given to Folarin Balogun during a critical USMNT match against Belgium.
“Well, it’s not a fixer. You mean being a judge,” Trump remarked.
He noted the successful review by FIFA, stating that if Balogun hadn’t played and the US lost, it would have caused discontent. Trump’s involvement was asking for a review, which he thought was necessary.
Although Balogun played, the USMNT lost 4-1 to Belgium, ending their World Cup hopes. As for DeChambeau, the penalty hindered his performance, but he stayed in the competition until a triple bogey on the 11th hole on Sunday. He finished tied for 14th, with The Open being the only major where he made the cut this season.
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