Bryson DeChambeau receives new three-word nickname after making LIV Golf claim
Two-time US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau had a heartfelt reaction to his new nickname after his triumph at Pinehurst
Golf star Bryson DeChambeau is pleased to be called ‘The People’s Champion’ in light of his latest major triumph. The American lifted the US Open for the second time on Sunday after staging a late comeback against Rory McIlroy at Pinehurst.
DeChambeau, 30, celebrated his victory in unique fashion, running around the course and offering members of a crowd their chance to touch the trophy. He also took ample time to meet supporters and sign autographs – and according to him, there was a very specific reason behind the generosity.
Ahead of his return to the LIV Golf League on Friday, DeChambeau spoke to reporters in Nashville and addressed his new moniker. And it’s fair to say he’s been touched by the outpouring of support in recent days.
“I’m humbled. Very humbled by it,” said the Californian ahead of his LIV return in Tennessee. “I’ve always wanted to do really cool things for the game of golf, whatever that is.
“When I was younger, I felt like I was called to do something in the game. Getting to this point in my life, where I’ve had struggles, done some things I shouldn’t have done, said some things I shouldn’t have said.
“Messing up and learning from those mistakes, learning patience, resilience, determination, continuing to grow in that capacity, and then getting to a place where I finally get to showcase my true self [and] show others what this great game means to me – it’s given me so much – it’s time for me to give back.
“That’s what I love most. That’s why this was so important for everyone to touch the trophy [laughs]. I wanted everyone to experience it, because it wasn’t just for me. It was for the turnaround, everyone looking at me [and] going, ‘Wow, that person’s different than what I thought.’ It was for them, those people who saw who I am.”
Prior to those comments, he spoke about the team aspect of the LIV Golf structure and the new support he’s felt as a result of joining the breakway tour. Moreover, he described his second US Open win as being “truly for LIV” and the faith he’s been shown by their backers.
DeChambeau has been at the centre of controversy in the past, whether that be feuding with LIV rival Brooks Koepka or calling Augusta a “par 67” course despite struggling at the Masters in previous years.
He also wasn’t exempt from the backlash that followed many ex-PGA Tour stars following their desertion to join LIV, which is funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Upon being asked about the country’s ties to the 9/11 terrorist attack, DeChambeau was criticised for downplaying the situation and commenting: “Nobody’s perfect.”
His latest remarks regarding “the turaround” hint at DeChambeau’s recognition of those difficulties in the past and his efforts to make things right. Perhaps not only in the eyes of the fans, but also in how he views himself.
In that sense, the scenes witnessed in North Carolina on Sunday painted the picture of a star fully accepted by his community. And The People’s Champion will hope to avoid similar missteps in future as he seeks to forge a legacy worthy of his obvious potential.
