Bryson DeChambeau calls for Donald Trump's Turnberry to host the Open
After a resurgent round at Royal Portrush on Friday, DeChambeau enthusiastically backed Trump's Scottish course even though he has yet to play it. 'I think it's worthy of it for sure,' said DeChambeau after organisers revealed earlier this week that discussions had taken place with the president's son Eric Trump.
The relatively low income the venue earns as well as infrastructure concerns are hurdles alongside specific considerations relating to the president. Telegraph Sport reported earlier this week how Trump's prominent behaviour at the Club World Cup – where he shared a stage for the Chelsea trophy lift – also privately reinforces a determination for the R&A to 'stay out of politics'.
However, LIV golfer DeChambeau, who has Trump's phone number and broadcasted a round with the president on his YouTube channel, sees no reason why it should not be considered for the next available Open slot in 2028. 'I look at it as a golf course,' said DeChambeau. 'It's one of the best golf courses in the world, and I'd love for it to be a part of the rotation. I haven't played it but I've heard so many great things about it and any time you get to play a special historical golf course like that.'
When asked whether Trump would try to have a 'special' impact on the Open, he added: 'He'd still probably respect the R&A and what they're trying to accomplish. I can't speak on his behalf, but what I can say is knowing him, he'll do his best of a job as he possibly can, and I know they won't let him down.'
DeChambeau was in chipper mood after battling back impressively from a horror round of 78 on Thursday. Explaining how he drew on his father's mantra of never giving up, he hit some of his best form with a six-under par 65 on Friday.
He found seven birdies and one bogey to sit one-over, yet he said there were no major changes in his approach. 'I've played the same as I did yesterday. That's links golf for you,' he said.
DeChambeau, famous for his left-field club tinkering, revealed that he had been practising with a new ball that he feels could help with his control, but said it was too soon to put it into action.
'It's coming; it'll be here, worst case scenario September, but an iteration of it in the next couple weeks,' he addd. 'I need a golf ball that on wedges can click on the face more consistently. I get a lot of slipping on the face just because of how vertical I am and how much loft I have ... so getting something that comes off at a more consistent trajectory in adverse conditions is really the goal.'
Another buoyant American as the rain poured again on Friday was Harris English, who maintained sparkling form to end the day five under. He said he had been exchanging messages throughout with caddie Eric Larson, who had been denied entry to the UK over a drug conviction more than 30 years ago.
Larson served 10 years in prison for drug offences before he was released in 2006 - and he has caddied at the Open before. But he now needs an exemption to the new Electronic Travel Authority visa rules in the UK. 'I miss having him out here - disappointed he's not here, but I know he's rooting me on from Palm Beach Gardens,' said English. 'He's probably one of the most positive people I've ever been around. He's obviously been in a pretty rough spot for 10-plus years, so every day is a gift. He does not have a bad day. So that's what I love about him.'
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