Whether Team USA truly enjoys the company of Bryson DeChambeau, we may never really know, but the Americans are circling the wagons for Ryder Cup week at least.
DeChambeau was the victim of scathing criticism from the Golf Channel’s Brandel Chamblee, and how well the LIV star can assimilate with his team this week is a major storyline. As Day 1 nears, Scottie Scheffler made his thoughts about his teammate clear, as the No. 1 player in the world offered a passionate defense of DeChambeau.
“I think Bryson is a tremendous competitor,” Scheffler told reporters during a Sept. 23 pre-tournament press conference. “He’s a great partner as well. I partnered with him in 2021 at Whistling Straits, and he was a tremendous guy to be on the golf course with.”
Scheffler Comes to Bryson’s Defense As Ryder Cup Nears
DeChambeau has played in two Ryder Cups, having qualified for the 2021 team and getting in as a captain’s pick in 2018. After a miserable 0-3 start as a rookie in the debacle that was Le Golf National, he was outstanding three years later at Whistling Straits. DeChambeau went 2-0-1 that week, getting paired up twice with Scheffler and earning 1.5 of a possible two points.
The big question, which was the root of Chamblee’s rant, is just how good of a teammate DeChambeau can be and whether he can avoid being a distraction. Based on Scheffler’s feedback, there aren’t any concerns there, either.
“He’s a great guy and a good friend, and he’s been great in our team room. Like I said, he brings a lot of energy, the people love him, and I think he loves the opportunity to be able to represent his country. He’s a multiple-time U.S. Open winner, and that means a lot to him. Being an American I think means a lot to him as well. I’m excited to kind of unleash him this week.”
At his best, DeChambeau is the perfect Ryder Cup player, at least for a homefield tournament, which the Americans have this year. Multiple teammates praised him in press conferences for his showmanship, saying he thrives on the energy that comes from the very unique arena.
That was on display in 2021. He announced his presence with authority in Sunday singles by driving the first green and making his eagle, a day after launching a jaw-dropping 417-yard drive at the par-5 fifth alongside Scheffler.
The performance earned DeChambeau passing grades from just about everyone, including Sports Illustrated’s Jeff Ritter, who handed the big hitter an “A” for his play
“Perfect combo of power and performance art. Drove the 1st green Sunday and made eagle to set tone vs. Sergio,” Ritter wrote. “Completely different player since going 0-3 in Ryder Cup debut in Paris. Looks made for this.”