Even before Bryson DeChambeau left the PGA Tour for LIV Golf in 2022, he already felt like he was on the outside looking in.
Not many players have gone through as big a transformation as DeChambeau. Early in his career, he caught plenty of flak from both fans and fellow players. And looking back, that criticism was not entirely unfounded.
He was not exactly a fan favourite on the PGA Tour, which made his move to LIV Golf three years ago less surprising than it might have been for others.
It is easy to forget now, but there was almost no talk of him being in the mix for Zach Johnson’s Ryder Cup team two years ago.
Conversely, DeChambeau’s reputation heading into Bethpage could scarcely be more divergent.
How the American camp is viewing Bryson DeChambeau ahead of Bethpage Ryder Cup
Keegan Bradley announced early on at The Open Championship that DeChambeau would be part of his team, even before the spot was officially secured. Many anticipate the Crushers captain will participate in all five sessions.
It appears he has also made a strong impression within the American camp. Speaking on Golf Channel, Todd Lewis noted that many in Bradley’s side are glad to have him involved.
“Let’s not forget, he is the only LIV player on the United States team but he has been heavily invested on being a part of this United States’ Ryder Cup team.
“He has been at every team meeting he has been able to attend, as a matter of fact, at the Tour Championship Keegan Bradley held a dinner for his six automatic qualifiers and Bryson was one of those, he flew to Atlanta for that dinner.
“And if you remember he was in Napa for the PGA Tour first Fall event which 10 of the 11 team members played who were eligible to play, he was there for the social functions.
“I can tell you this, his teammates on the United States team have embraced Bryson – not only because of his great talent but his great personality and they think he will be a big part of stirring up the energy here at Bethpage Black.”
DeChambeau has teammates lining up to partner with him in New York
By the time the 2021 Ryder Cup rolled around, DeChambeau’s popularity was already starting to grow. Even so, it is unlikely there were many players eager to pair up with him at Whistling Straits.
He ended up partnering with rookie Scottie Scheffler over the first two days in Wisconsin, and his play helped Steve Stricker’s side maintain control throughout the event.
This year, things are different. It seems there is not a player on Bradley’s team who would not welcome the chance to partner with DeChambeau at Bethpage.
The 32-year-old now seems to have earned the respect and acceptance of his peers that he had long been searching for.
A strong showing in the coming days will undoubtedly lead to increased calls for DeChambeau’s regular return to playing against the PGA Tour’s elite.
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