McIlroy backs R&A over DeChambeau two-stroke Open penalty

Rory McIlroy has backed the R&A's decision to impose a two-stroke penalty on Bryson DeChambeau at the Open Championship, accusing the American of holding the tournament "hostage" at Royal Birkdale.

McIlroy, speaking about the ruling, said he had "no doubt" over the governing body's call. His comments, reported by BBC Sport, place one of the sport's most prominent players firmly behind the officials rather than the former major winner.

What happened

DeChambeau was handed a two-stroke penalty by the R&A during the Open at Royal Birkdale. The report did not set out the specific circumstances that led to the ruling, but McIlroy's response made clear he considered the penalty justified.

• The R&A imposed a two-stroke penalty on Bryson DeChambeau at Royal Birkdale
• Rory McIlroy said he has "no doubt" the decision was correct
• McIlroy accused DeChambeau of holding the Open "hostage"
• McIlroy also said he is "not fond of" the American

Why it matters

The exchange adds a high-profile voice to the debate over how the championship is run and how its rules are applied. McIlroy's language went beyond a routine defence of officialdom, framing the issue as one about the standing of the Open itself rather than a single ruling.

Two strokes can be significant in a major, where margins at the top of the leaderboard are often tight, and the penalty immediately becomes part of the story of DeChambeau's week at Royal Birkdale.

Attention now turns to how the penalty shapes DeChambeau's tournament and whether the matter lingers beyond the closing round. McIlroy, meanwhile, remains in the field and will be watched closely for any further comment on the ruling.