Bryson DeChambeau received a two-shot penalty during the 2026 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale after improving his lie on the fifth hole in the second round. The decision has garnered support from the professional golf community, with Rory McIlroy noting that competing players broadly agree the ruling was justified and appropriate.

However, the way the incident unfolded drew sharp criticism from McIlroy, who accused DeChambeau of holding the championship "hostage" after chaotic scenes unfolded on Friday evening. Extensive discussions between DeChambeau and R&A rules officials over the infringement caused delays to Saturday's tee times, disrupting the tournament schedule and creating friction among the field.