The Open Championship: Bryson DeChambeau fires back at his critics with a sizzling start

Bryson DeChambeau responded to critics, including Nick Faldo who claimed he had 'zero clue' how to play links golf, by shooting a 3-under 67 on day one of the 154th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale on July 16, 2026. DeChambeau finished one shot off the clubhouse lead, with only a late bogey on the 18th hole preventing him from sharing the top spot. The strong opening round came after a difficult season in which he missed the cut at the first three majors of 2026.