Bryson DeChambeau told he will ‘struggle’ at The Open compared to Rory Mcllroy

As The Open Championship returns to Royal Portrush, all eyes are once again on the world’s elite.

 But this year, speculation swirls around Bryson DeChambeau’s chances on the rugged links layout.

DeChambeau has been told he’s more likely to struggle at The Open this year, compared to his rival Rory Mcllroy.

Speaking candidly on the Golf Channel Podcast, analyst Rex Hoggard said as per Sport Review:

“This is more art than science… He’s never going to allow himself to be the artist that Rory McIlroy wants to be.”

DeChambeau, a two-time major champion and one of the most polarising figures in golf, has long embraced a data-driven, hyper-technical approach. 

His commitment to precision and predictability has earned him praise in the U.S.—especially on courses designed for power. 

However, links golf is an entirely different beast.

“Bryson wants the constants,” Hoggard said. 

“He wants to say, ‘I’m going to hit this nine-iron 165 yards. Not 166, not 164.’

“It’s going to be the bad bounce… the wrong side of the draw… and it’s the player that rolls with those bad bounces that ends up on top.”

By contrast, Rory McIlroy, the home favourite and Masters champion, thrives in chaos. 

His feel for the game, ability to shape shots, and mental resilience give him an edge that machines can’t replicate.

DeChambeau’s track record supports the scepticism. 

In seven Open appearances, the 31-year-old LIV Golf star has recorded only one top-10 finish, and that was at Royal Liverpool in 2022.

He’s also missed the cut three times, including last year. 

However, DeChambeau has acknowledged the need for adaptation ahead of The Open.

“Just try to be as strategic as possible… not give myself too many difficult places to play from is the goal,” he said.

That’s a promising sign, but whether he can truly resist the temptation to overpower the course remains to be seen.