In a surprising turn of events, Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee, known for his fierce criticism of LIV Golf, extended significant praise to Bryson DeChambeau after his recent triumph at the US Open at Pinehurst No. 2. DeChambeau’s impressive victory, his second Major championship, was clinched with a world-class bunker shot on the 18th hole,…
In a surprising turn of events, Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee, known for his fierce criticism of LIV Golf, extended significant praise to Bryson DeChambeau after his recent triumph at the US Open at Pinehurst No. 2. DeChambeau’s impressive victory, his second Major championship, was clinched with a world-class bunker shot on the 18th hole, overcoming Rory McIlroy in the
Despite DeChambeau’s success, some viewers felt Chamblee’s commentary during the tournament was biased against the eventual champion. Fans noted his frequent use of the term “fortune” and accused him of unprofessionalism. Golf influencer Paige Spiranac even suggested that Chamblee “hates” DeChambeau, stating, “Brandel saying ‘good fortune’ is why Bryson won the US Open is wild. Doesn’t even try to hide his hatred for him. Smh.”
Chamblee has been a vocal critic of LIV Golf since its inception two years ago, labeling its format as “laughable” and describing the 2023 merger as “one of the saddest days in the history of professional golf.” However, he surprised many by congratulating DeChambeau, a LIV player, during a Golf Channel broadcast on Sunday night. Chamblee later posted a supportive message on social media, praising DeChambeau’s recent conduct with fans.
In response to a fan who asked him to “say something nice about Bryson,” Chamblee replied, “Maybe listen a little bit closer. Bryson is one of the best things to ever happen to golf. He’s a reminder that professional golf isn’t just about putting a number on the board but giving back to those that pay for their purses and privilege by fulfilling every media obligation, going beyond and further, and giving the fans who stand in line and pay extravagant prices to watch them more than they could’ve imagined. This is food for thought to every PGA Tour, LPGA Tour, and DP World Tour player.”
DeChambeau attributes his rising popularity among golf fans, and potentially with Chamblee, to his increased presence on social media, particularly YouTube. His channel, which has over 742,000 subscribers and 82.5 million views, offers a glimpse into the “real” DeChambeau, a character that many are finding engaging.
“I’ve worked really hard to help people hopefully understand who I am a little bit better,” DeChambeau said. “YouTube has been a great platform to help with that. The Break 50 series is a lot of fun. I love doing it. It’s a challenge that’s never been done or accomplished without any strokes. It keeps my brain fresh and in an entertainment mode, reminding me what the game is all about, not just for winning money or trophies but for entertaining, as well.”
With 13 professional wins to his name, DeChambeau is set to compete at LIV Golf Nashville this weekend before heading to The Open Championship, the final men’s Major of the season, next month.
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