Does the bunker blowup by Bryson DeChambeau indicate cracks in the LIV Golf facade? Known as “The Scientist” for his critical approach to golf, Bryson DeChambeau has had both a controversial and a genius career. From his famous YouTube exploits to his two U.S. Open victories (in 2020 and 2024), he has been in the news frequently. However, his on-course behavior has occasionally come under scrutiny.

Notably, following a disappointing round at the 2019 WGC-Mexico Championship, he apologized for an angry outburst captured on camera. These occurrences have sometimes eclipsed his accomplishments. But last week in Mexico, DeChambeau’s fiery temperament returned—this time in a bunker, casting a fresh spotlight on his behavior. While past incidents have faded, his latest flare-up reignited controversy, bringing renewed attention to his on-course demeanor.

Fans fire back at DeChambeau’s outburst

With a bunker shot at Club de Golf Chapultepec during the recent LIV Golf event in Mexico City, DeChambeau’s anger reached a boiling point. In a video posted on X (previously Twitter) by NUCLR Golf, DeChambeau can be seen striking from a bunker with obvious annoyance and yelling, “Worst f–king bunkers ever.” The caption read, “Bryson DeChambeau wasn’t thrilled with the bunkers at LIV Mexico last week.”

Expressing his dissatisfaction in public, he issued an apology in 2019 during the WGC-Mexico Championship after footage showed him angrily breaking a green. “I am extremely passionate… I am certainly not perfect but I respect the grounds staff and the game of golf.” He confronted a cameraman at the Rocket Mortgage Classic in 2020 for recording his response to a subpar bunker shot, claiming that the clip could damage his reputation. Despite a strong start in Mexico and booming 377-yard drives, DeChambeau’s bunker outburst stole the spotlight, sparking viral backlash and widespread criticism of his professionalism.

In reaction to DeChambeau’s most recent outburst, the golf community wasn’t holding back. As one admirer put it, “You are a professional…either deal with it or don’t hit into them!!”  This sentiment reflects the assumption that top athletes should adapt to course conditions without complaint. By design, bunkers are dangers intended to test players rather than to make them feel comfortable. Another fan remarked, “This guy really fools a lot of people out here. Same whiney, entitled brat he has always been.” This highlights the distinction between professional and amateur experiences, suggesting that DeChambeau’s tantrum is despicable. 

“Welcome to golf Bryson, bunkers are meant to be penal; figure them out,” another person wrote. This illustrates the fundamental concept that risks are inherent to the game of golf and that skilled players are expected to manage them effectively. DeChambeau’s method was also criticized. “He has no bunker technique,” one commenter suggested, suggesting that rather than course circumstances, his difficulties might be the result of talent shortcomings. Another said frankly, “Maybe you wouldn’t be whinging like a bitch if you hit the shot properly with a follow through.” Such comments imply that, rather than blaming outside forces for their performance, supporters expect professionals to accept responsibility for their work. ​

DeChambeau has become a lightning rod for criticism due to his history of altercations and outbursts. Despite his evident love for the game, many believe it’s time for him to channel that energy in a more positive direction.