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Bryson DeChambeau claps back at Nick Faldo, other critics, after -3 round at The Open: ‘incredibly strategic’
Bryson DeChambeau has hit back at critics, including golf commentator Nick Faldo, after posting a three-under-par round at The Open Championship, describing his approach as "incredibly strategic". The response comes after a difficult 2026 season for the American, who has struggled badly in major tournaments this year, and highlights the growing tension between the outspoken golfer and pundits questioning his form and tactics.
DeChambeau, the 2024 US Open Champion, missed the cut at the first three majors of the season, including The Masters and the PGA Championship, before turning in an improved performance at The Open. His defence of his strategy suggests he sees the criticism as unfair given the circumstances of his round, though the article does not detail the specific comments made by Faldo or other critics that prompted his response.
In short
- DeChambeau defended his round at The Open as "incredibly strategic" after criticism.
- He has had a poor 2026 major season, missing three straight cuts.
- Nick Faldo and other pundits were among those criticising his play.
Explained simply
Bryson DeChambeau is an American professional golfer who won the 2024 US Open Championship. His 2026 season has been disappointing, with DeChambeau failing to advance beyond the opening rounds of three major championships so far, including The Masters and the PGA Championship.
The Open Championship is golf's fourth and final major tournament of the season. DeChambeau's recent participation has intensified scrutiny of his playing strategy, which golf commentators and analysts have questioned following his earlier disappointing performances. Nick Faldo, a respected former champion now working as a golf commentator, is among the prominent voices examining his methods.
The close examination of players' tactics at major championships reflects the tournaments' special significance in professional golf. With DeChambeau's record at these events weak throughout 2026, his approach to the game has become a frequent point of analysis and commentary in the sports media.