DeChambeau’s Emotional Tribute: A Heartfelt Victory at Pinehurst

DeChambeau’s Emotional Tribute: A Heartfelt Victory at Pinehurst

Bryson DeChambeau, after a dramatic US Open victory at Pinehurst, expressed deep sympathy for Rory McIlroy and paid tribute to his late father and golfing idol, Payne Stewart. DeChambeau, who led by three shots into the final round, was overtaken by McIlroy before an extraordinary finish in North Carolina.

McIlroy briefly held a two-shot lead after an impressive streak of birdies, but faltered with bogeys on three of the last four holes, missing crucial putts from close range on the 16th and 18th. This stumble left DeChambeau needing to par the last hole for victory, which he secured with a superb bunker shot from 55 yards.

Speaking after his closing round of 71, DeChambeau, who finished six under par, a shot ahead of McIlroy, with Patrick Cantlay and Tony Finau tied for third at four under, said, “I want to say Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there. Unfortunately, my dad passed a couple of years ago and this one is for him.”

DeChambeau also honored Payne Stewart, the legendary golfer who inspired him to attend Southern Methodist University and adopt the iconic peaked cap. Stewart won his third major at Pinehurst in 1999 before tragically dying in a plane crash months later.

Reflecting on his recent near miss at the US PGA Championship, DeChambeau said, “I’m so happy I got that shot up and down on 18. The PGA really stung. Xander [Schauffele] played magnificent. I wanted to get this one done, especially at such a special place that means so much to me.”

The victory was especially poignant as Pinehurst marked the site of the 1000th USGA championship, a significant milestone for DeChambeau. “That bunker shot was the shot of my life,” he added.

DeChambeau’s victory has solidified his popularity this season, even as he competes in the Saudi-funded LIV Golf League. He thanked the fans for their unwavering support, saying, “You are the best fans in the world and I can’t thank you enough. I want you guys to all somehow touch this trophy tonight and be part of the after party.”

He also expressed deep respect for McIlroy, who left the course without speaking to the media. “Rory is one of the best to ever play,” DeChambeau remarked. “For him to miss that putt, I’d never wish it on anybody. It just happened to play out that way. He’ll win multiple more major championships. There’s no doubt.”

DeChambeau concluded, reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster, “I don’t know what to think. It fully hasn’t sunk in yet. It’s a dream come true.”