One of the only disappointments from Sunday at The Masters concerned Bryson DeChambeau, with the American completely falling away during the final round at Augusta National.
Had fans been asked ahead of The Masters which two players they would hope to see in the final group on Sunday, it is likely that many would have opted for Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau. Of course, the pair almost felt like the only two players on the golf course over the final 18 holes at last year’s US Open.
Remarkably, McIlroy and the LIV Golf star did play their way into the last group on Sunday at Augusta National. DeChambeau used the word ‘match’ ahead of the round, seemingly hinting that he felt that it would be between the two of them for the green jacket.
In that sense, he would have been correct. However, DeChambeau himself was nowhere near being a factor. The 31-year-old’s challenge was over by the 13th tee as he ended up posting a 75 to finish in a tie for fifth.
Sir Nick Faldo hits back at criticism over his comments about Bryson DeChambeau at The Masters
It still was his best finish at Augusta to date. But he did receive some criticism, with Sir Nick Faldo not particularly impressed by the two-time major winner.
In fact, some felt that Faldo was too harsh on DeChambeau while on commentary. However, speaking to The Times, the Englishman insisted that it was not down to his dislike for LIV Golf.
“That’s bull—-,” he said. “I like the guy. I texted him after he won the US Open. I don’t like the way he plays at times, which I’m allowed to criticise. He said he was going to attack Troon last year. You don’t attack a links, you thread it down there. I’m not sure about his strategy, but he is great entertainment. I’m a fan.”
Faldo not the only one left confused by Bryson DeChambeau
Faldo was far from being the only person to criticise DeChambeau’s strategy in the days after The Masters.
It seemed that he had a golden opportunity to win his third major title, particularly after taking the lead on the second hole on Sunday. However, things turned again shortly after.
DeChambeau left many baffled by taking an iron off the third tee, with Padraig Harrington amongst those who felt that the Crushers captain passed up the opportunity to make a statement.
“Without a doubt the biggest strategy change yesterday was Bryson. Bryson DeChambeau has made himself by hitting driver, being aggressive. What was he doing laying up off the third hole? He’s got a one shot lead, he’s got the tee, he could stand there and possibly drive the green, he’s made his game, what was he looking for? Who is he looking to be? He changed his personality completely,” he said.
Sometimes it appears that DeChambeau tries too hard to win in a way which has never been done before. Obviously, he has had so much success with his methods that it is too hard to be too critical.
But there is surely a balance to be had, which DeChambeau is still working to find in his game.
Receive exclusive golf news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
