Bryson DeChambeau doesn’t win the PGA trophy, but he does win the crowd

On the eve of the final round at the PGA Championship, Bryson DeChambeau delivered a memorable moment, chipping in for eagle on the 18th hole at Valhalla with a 6-iron. His ferocious fist pump triggered one of the loudest cheers of the week, showcasing his flair for entertaining the crowd, even though he remained two shots behind the lead. “Obviously we all want to win trophies,” DeChambeau remarked on Saturday evening. “But being able to entertain the fans is what we’re all here to do. And I think that’s the most important thing.”

Xander Schauffele ultimately clinched the 27-pound Wanamaker Trophy with exceptional golf, highlighted by his record-tying 62 in the opening round and a decisive 6-foot birdie putt, securing his first major victory at the PGA Championship. Despite Schauffele’s win, DeChambeau carved out a victory of his own by captivating the fans and emerging as a crowd favorite and entertainer.

Throughout a week filled with headlines, including the arrest of the world’s top player and record-low scoring at the PGA Championship, DeChambeau remained at the center of attention. A notable moment occurred when Schauffele and Collin Morikawa were on the fifth hole. A roar erupted from the direction of the sixth green, unmistakably for DeChambeau. Heading to the 10th tee on Sunday, DeChambeau displayed his rapport with fans by ensuring a young boy received a golf ball that had been taken by an adult.

“Man for the people,” shouted a fan as others cheered, and DeChambeau continued to draw a dedicated following for the remaining nine holes. His spectacular shots, including a tee shot on the 16th that fortuitously struck a tree and landed back on the fairway, exemplified his unpredictable and thrilling style of play. His use of an 8-iron from 219 yards to land the ball three feet from the hole further cemented his reputation.

DeChambeau, known for his unconventional approach to the game, has spent years promoting revolutionary ideas, from single-length clubs to considering nine different calculations before each shot. His methods have often been met with curiosity and skepticism. His “Incredible Bulk” era, marked by a significant increase in muscle mass to enhance his swing speed, led to victories such as the U.S. Open and participation in the Long Drive Championship.

Despite past controversies, including a public feud with Brooks Koepka and a contentious interview on CNN following the PGA Tour and LIV Golf commercial agreement, DeChambeau’s performance at Valhalla signaled a shift in perception. No longer wearing his signature Hogan cap or a metaphorical black hat, he seemed more in tune with the fans.

As he kept loose on the range, awaiting a potential playoff, DeChambeau watched Schauffele’s winning putt on a large video board and heard the crowd’s thunderous applause. He marched to greet Schauffele, acknowledging his own place in the entertainment aspect of the sport. While DeChambeau’s candid remarks might offend purists, his assertion that his “B game would be enough” reflects his confidence and commitment to playing his unique brand of golf.

DeChambeau’s absence from the PGA Tour until the U.S. Open will be felt, as he continues to draw fans through his YouTube channel and LIV Golf events. His evolution as an entertainer, informed by his growing understanding of the role through his YouTube experiences, has made him a dynamic figure in golf. “When the moment comes along, knowing what to do, what to say, how to act is really important,” DeChambeau said. His focus on the fans and his role as an entertainer has become more deliberate, adding a new dimension to his performances.

Valhalla showcased DeChambeau at his best, both as a golfer and as a showman. His ability to engage and excite the audience underscores the blend of sport and entertainment that defines modern golf.