Bryson DeChambeau, the renowned LIV Golf player representing Team USA, has responded to critics challenging his popularity on YouTube. This comes just ahead of the Ryder Cup commencing at Bethpage Black on September 26.
DeChambeau shrugged off recent criticism from Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee while engaging with fans and signing autographs. Chamblee’s critiques of DeChambeau date back to before his 2020 US Open triumph, urging the American golfer to cease complaining about bunkers during a LIV event in Mexico City.
Chamblee, from his Ryder Cup perspective, labeled DeChambeau as a “captain’s nightmare,” an “unusual character,” and even a “circus promoter,” implying that his YouTube focus and personality could pose challenges as a teammate. He also questioned DeChambeau’s substantial subscriber count of 2.43 million, suggesting it might involve bot activity.
The genesis of Chamblee’s criticism was linked to DeChambeau’s remarks at the ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ premiere in July, where he talked about taunting Rory at the Ryder Cup, but omitted mentioning winning the tournament, focusing instead on his YouTube endeavors.
The backlash on social media was met with a defense from US captain Keegan Bradley, who praised DeChambeau’s contributions in the team environment. Scottie Scheffler echoed Bradley’s sentiments, lauding DeChambeau as a fierce competitor.
Reflecting on their partnership at Whistling Straits in 2021, Scheffler described DeChambeau as an exceptional companion on the golf course. Xander Schauffele went further, stating that DeChambeau could be the pivotal factor in the US team’s bid to reclaim the Cup.
During practice rounds in New York, DeChambeau faced enthusiastic supporters seeking autographs on hats, flags, and golf balls, creating a viral meme suggesting Chamblee might deem these fans as automated accounts.
When asked about Chamblee’s remarks, DeChambeau brushed them off with a smile, showing a nonchalant attitude. His YouTube series “Break 50” has garnered significant attention, with episodes featuring Donald Trump, John Daly, and Adam Sandler amassing millions of views.
In his most recent video, released a day before Scottie Scheffler’s victory at the Procore Championship, DeChambeau attempts to set public course records at Sawgrass’s island green and Oakmont’s challenging par-4 stretch, showcasing his golf skills and entertainment value.
