US Open told to investigate Bryson DeChambeau and it could derail title hopes

US Open officials have been called upon to examine Bryson DeChambeau’s putter following claims that it may violate tournament regulations. DeChambeau, who was leading the tournament by three strokes on Saturday evening, achieved a stellar third round score of 67 at the Pinehurst No. 2 course in North Carolina.

The 30-year-old golfer had been among the frontrunners from the beginning, posting an impressive -3 in the opening round and following up with a -1 in Round 2. A subsequent -3 in Round 3 put him ahead of rivals Patrick Cantlay, Rory McIlroy, and Matthieu Pavon as the tournament approached its final day.

Despite his outstanding performance, DeChambeau’s use of his putter has come under scrutiny. Kip Henley, a seasoned caddie, publicly questioned whether the specifications of DeChambeau’s putter were compliant with USGA rules. Henley voiced his concerns on social media platform X, stating, “If I’m a player around the lead in the US Open I would ask the USGA to check the specs on this putter.”

Henley highlighted that the putter’s shaft must tilt away from the head by at least 10 degrees, suggesting that DeChambeau’s putter appeared to be too vertical. He clarified, “It’s not forward or backwards lean, it’s the vertical lean. He may have the heel a touch in the air which would make it appear a touch more upright.”

When reminded that DeChambeau’s equipment had likely been approved by tournament officials, Henley acknowledged that his comments were meant to provoke discussion and humor, adding, “If I don’t tweet it then what else can we talk about? It’s all in fun. I hope the dude and his caddie grab the trophy tomorrow.”

DeChambeau, a former US Open champion who clinched victory in 2020 with a six-under-par 274 at Winged Foot in New York, maintained his composure amidst the controversy. He finished the third round this year with a commanding lead and expressed his gratitude to the fans, stating, “It was amazing – I can’t thank them enough. It was a blessing. Man, they riled me up. It just gives me a spike in my adrenaline and allows me to focus more on delivering for the fans, for myself, and for my family. It just inspires me.”

As DeChambeau heads into the final round, the scrutiny over his putter adds a layer of tension to what has already been a gripping tournament. With officials yet to comment on the situation, the golfing community watches closely to see how the final day unfolds and whether DeChambeau’s equipment will pass muster under the rules.