Bryson DeChambeau peeks ahead to 'diabolical' Portrush, backs Bradley for Ryder Cup

His best performance in a major this season is yet to come, Bryson DeChambeau hopes, but he knows first-hand the challenge waiting at Royal Portrush.

"It can be diabolical," DeChambeau said recalling his previous appearance on the track pegged to host the Open Championship next month. "Driver is key on that golf course in wind conditions, in side-wind conditions. It's going to be a good test of controlling your golf ball, so I've got to be in touch with my game. I've got to have better feel."

DeChambeau missed the cut at the U.S. Open at Oakmont after two top-five finishes at majors to start the season. He was T2 at the PGA Championship after settling for a tie for fifth at the Masters, where he played in the final grouping Sunday with champion Rory McIlroy.

DeChambeau, playing at LIV Golf Dallas near his current home of Grapevine this week, missed the cut at the 2024 Open at Royal Troon. But he won the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst and was runner-up at the PGA Championship at Valhalla coming off a T6 at the Masters that year.

"Yeah, I'd say disappointed that I haven't won one yet. I've got to fine-tune my game and focus on executing my shots the way I know I can on the golf course. I haven't been doing that recently," DeChambeau said of his performance in majors this season. "A little bit more due diligence on my side of the coin. Not taking things for granted and focusing on what I can do to give myself the best chance to win at the British Open."

Beyond the upcoming test overseas, DeChambeau is eyeing a spot on the 2025 Ryder Cup team at Bethpage Black. Ranked 15th in the current Official World Golf Ranking, DeChambeau is eight spots behind U.S. captain Keegan Bradley. A teammate from past Ryder Cup appearances, DeChambeau believes Bradley should be a playing captain for the Americans based on his current form.

In current Ryder Cup points standings, where Scottie Scheffler has clinched a qualifying spot, DeChambeau is fifth and one ahead of No. 6 Justin Thomas with the automatic qualifier cutoff line separating Collin Morikawa, Ben Griffin and Bradley.

"I personally think given how he's played, I could confidently say he should be a part of the team for sure," DeChambeau said.

--Field Level Media