Bryson DeChambeau, one of the most controversial names in modern golf, is taking an unexpected turn in his opinions on the new format of LIV Golf tournaments. The golfer, who initially expressed support for the change to 72-hole events, is now facing a reversal as he approaches his first tournament under the new rules in 2026. Just days before the event in Riyadh, DeChambeau voiced his concerns about the physical demands of four rounds, but his recent performance at The Grange may have shifted his perspective.
“It’s tiring to play another round. But we’ve done this our whole lives, and we’re used to it and comfortable with it,” DeChambeau said during the LIV Golf Adelaide press conference in 2026. With an impressive performance, he finished the first two rounds tied at the top of the leaderboard with an astonishing 19 under par, alongside Spain’s Jon Rahm. The difference is that all other competitors are at least five strokes behind, making the competition even more thrilling.
DeChambeau, who leads the Crushers GC, believes that another round of golf is a fair way to decide the winner. “After the ball went in, I was certainly happy — and not being able to make up-and-down, I’m glad there are 18 more holes tomorrow. I think we’re separating ourselves at this moment. You never know, someone could pull off a miracle tomorrow. But we are both playing great golf right now and giving the fans what they want, and that’s what matters.”
With the Championship scheduled for Sunday, the tension is palpable as the two golfers prepare for the challenge. Notably, this will be the first time that Rahm and DeChambeau occupy the top two positions in a tournament, which could result in an exciting showdown between them.
Meanwhile, DeChambeau is not only focused on his personal battle. The captain of the Crushers GC is aware that his team’s performance is also crucial. “I wish my team was a little higher up, but they are struggling. I think the Legion is leading. It’s not just about the individual side, but also the team side, and that reflects who is playing better that week. From that perspective, the four rounds are great. There are always pros and cons; you can always argue the opposite in certain situations. But for the most part, four rounds are good for this week, especially here.”
In addition to Rahm, Tyrrell Hatton is well positioned in T7, with a total of 12 under par, and Caleb Surratt is also in the hunt to break into the top 10. Both have the opportunity to score points in the OWGR standings by the end of Sunday, which could help Legion XIII maintain its lead in the team table.
On the other hand, Bryson DeChambeau’s Crushers GC is not performing notably at The Grange. His closest teammate in the standings is Charles Howell III, who sits at T33, seven strokes off the top 10. This puts his team in a difficult position, despite their captain’s efforts.
There are high expectations for what Sunday holds, with DeChambeau and Rahm ready for a battle that could determine not only the tournament champion but also the dynamics of the teams in LIV Golf. What does the future hold for this controversial player?
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