Bryson DeChambeau, renowned in the world of LIV Golf and representing Team USA, has responded to critics challenging his fame on YouTube. Just ahead of the Ryder Cup commencing at Bethpage Black on September 26, DeChambeau addressed the ongoing criticism from Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee while engaging with fans and signing autographs.
Chamblee’s public disapproval of DeChambeau dates back to before his 2020 US Open triumph, where he advised the American player to refrain from complaining about bunkers during a LIV event in Mexico City.
During the Ryder Cup preparations, Chamblee labeled DeChambeau as a “captain’s nightmare,” an “odd duck,” and even a “circus barker,” hinting at his challenging personality and focus on YouTube, which he implied could make him a problematic teammate. Chamblee also questioned DeChambeau’s substantial subscriber count of 2.43 million, suggesting the presence of bots contributing to his popularity.
Chamblee connected his critique to DeChambeau’s remarks at the ‘Happy Gilmore 2’ premiere in July, where DeChambeau discussed his intention to engage with Rory at the Ryder Cup but omitted any mention of winning the event, instead focusing on his YouTube ventures.
The backlash quickly spread across social media platforms but did not go unaddressed. US captain Keegan Bradley came to DeChambeau’s defense, praising him as “incredible” within the team dynamic. Scottie Scheffler echoed these sentiments, describing DeChambeau as a “tremendous competitor.”
Reflecting on their partnership at Whistling Straits in 2021, Scheffler highlighted DeChambeau as a fantastic presence on the golf course. Xander Schauffele expressed confidence in DeChambeau, stating that he could be the deciding factor in the US team’s attempt to reclaim the Cup.
Amid the endorsements, supporters flocked to DeChambeau during practice rounds in New York, eagerly seeking autographs on hats, flags, and golf balls. This scene led to a viral meme suggesting that Brandel Chamblee might dismiss these fans as bots.
When questioned about Chamblee’s comments, DeChambeau brushed them off with a smile, feigning ignorance and moving on to sign more autographs as laughter ensued around him.
DeChambeau’s Break 50 YouTube series has consistently garnered attention, with videos like his round with Donald Trump amassing 16 million views, his collaboration with John Daly attracting nearly 10 million views, and a session with Adam Sandler accumulating over 8 million views.
His most recent upload, released just a day before Scottie Scheffler’s victory at the Procore Championship with a $6 million prize, showcases DeChambeau attempting to set public course records at Sawgrass’s island green and Oakmont’s challenging par-4 stretch.
