Bryson DeChambeau, the American professional golfer, reportedly threatened to involve former U.S. President Donald Trump during a dispute over a two-shot penalty at the Open Championship held at Royal Birkdale in July. The penalty, assessed during the tournament’s second round on the fifth hole, was given for improving the area behind his ball prior to his backswing, an action that officials deemed in violation of the rules.

According to multiple accounts, DeChambeau reacted strongly upon receiving the penalty, insisting on being driven back to the scene with officials to review the incident. Upon returning to the scoring area, he allegedly threatened to call Trump to intervene on his behalf. There has been no confirmation that Trump was actually contacted, and DeChambeau did not engage with media following the incident. His public appearances during the tournament were notably limited.

DeChambeau is a two-time U.S. Open champion known for his distinctive playing style and outspoken personality. He has also been a vocal supporter of Trump, having been referenced by the former president during his 2024 election victory speech. Trump’s involvement in sport controversies has garnered recent attention, notably in his reported attempts to influence decisions at the FIFA World Cup. It was revealed that Trump made several calls to FIFA President Gianni Infantino concerning disciplinary actions against U.S. player Folarin Balogun, a move that led to UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin boycotting the World Cup final in protest.

The episode at Royal Birkdale highlights increasing concerns about the politicization and perceived theatrics surrounding sports events involving prominent American figures. Observers have drawn parallels between Trump's known interventions in international sporting events and DeChambeau’s threat to summon him during a rule dispute in a major golf tournament.

While DeChambeau ultimately did not receive any official redress, the incident underscores the broader discourse on the mixing of politics and sportsmanship, as well as the potential influence wielded by high-profile personalities in athletic contexts. The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale was ultimately won by an international player, signaling continued global competitiveness amid the heightened media focus on such controversies.