Once again, Bryson DeChambeau has put himself in the mix to win The Masters after the opening day at Augusta National, with the LIV Golf star posting a three under par 69.
Bryson DeChambeau was not quite able to replicate his start to the 2024 Masters – when he shot 65 to lead by one from Scottie Scheffler – but he is on the first page of the leaderboard after a very good first round.
Obviously, much of the focus is on Scheffler. But DeChambeau is proving that he is starting to get to real grips with Augusta National.
Although, it was not the perfect round for the 31-year-old. The Crushers GC captain made four bogeys, with two on each nine.
Bryson DeChambeau reacts to his turbulent opening round at The Masters
With the world number one putting together a flawless 68, it is interesting to contrast the two styles, with DeChambeau making seven birdies. Only Justin Rose managed to make more on Thursday.
Following his round, DeChambeau was asked whether he would rather have his scorecard or have put together a more consistent round. And interestingly, the two-time US Open champion suggested that he can actually benefit from a turbulent day out on the course.
“Probably more confidence if I go bogey free. Although it’s weird, I feel like, oh, I haven’t made a bogey yet. You get that kind of testy nerve in there,” he said.
“So making some bogeys for me probably frees me up a little bit and says, you know what, just go out and play some golf.”
DeChambeau will now hope history does not repeat itself at Augusta National
It must be a little daunting for DeChambeau to already be four shots back of the lead after Rose put together a masterclass over the first 17 holes of the day.
It is going to be intriguing to see whether he decides to stick or twist on Friday. Justin Rose has led the most rounds at Augusta without ever winning The Masters. So there is reason for the field to believe that he could come back to them at some stage.
And it seems that DeChambeau is very content with where he finds himself right now.
“Yeah, it’s a great start. Anytime you’re under par at the Masters, it’s an honour to be there, give myself a good chance going into the weekend,” he said.
“Tomorrow is going to be another great test, and hopefully I can set myself up on Saturday and give myself a chance on Sunday.”
DeChambeau was unable to break par over the rest of the week 12 months ago after his amazing start. So you would imagine that he would be delighted if he could keep the bogeys off his card on Friday, despite his comments.
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