The Augusta National Golf Club has toyed with countless hearts during the last 88 years, as dreams are brutally crushed just as they are being realized. Bryson DeChambeau is experiencing firsthand the unparalleled highs and lows of the Masters.
The 30-year-old briefly grabbed a share of the lead on Saturday afternoon but imploded down the stretch, with Scottie Scheffler surging into first by the end of Round 3 (7-under par overall). A terribly hit ball that plopped into the water on the 15th hole was DeChambeau's biggest blunder, leading to a back-breaking double bogey.
He seemed destined to dive into Sunday in complete free-fall mode before a tremendous and improbable birdie on the 18th brought him back to 3-under for the tournament. The 2020 U.S. Open champion's elated response illustrates just how badly he needed that shot.
Bryson DeChambeau holes out on the 18th 🤯
He’s in 5th place heading into Sunday at The Masters ⛳️ pic.twitter.com/fyJXFtJhLY
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 13, 2024
That was not the only high point for DeChambeau, as he also sunk a terrific putt on the 14th right before tallying the double. His power, which resulted in a thrilling finish to this erratic outing and a stellar opening round, can help him contend for golf's most coveted crown in the final 18 holes.
But If Bryson DeChambeau is unable to build on this momentum, his back-nine mishaps on Saturday could be tough to accept following the Masters' conclusion. And therein lies the fickle nature of this cruel but captivating game.
One moment can completely change a golfer's trajectory for the better or worse. Hence, why many consider it to be the most difficult sport to grasp. DeChambeau knows that double-edged sword quite well after today.
What a Masters victory could do for Bryson DeChambeau
The Green Jacket is the pinnacle for any golfer, but it carries even more significance for someone like DeChambeau. The Masters is actually where the former SMU star introduced himself to the golf-watching world. He topped all amateurs and tied for 21st place overall in 2016. The Modesto, California native quickly climbed the rankings and would soon become one of the most polarizing golfers on the PGA Tour.
His breakthrough at the U.S. Open, top-five world ranking, hulking frame and rivalry with Brooks Koepka all helped him become a household name. While Patrick Reed turned off many fans, Bryson DeChambeau was a “villain” that could engage viewers.
A lot of time has passed, though. His decision to join Saudi-backed LIV Golf has kept him out of the limelight for the most part, and his comments regarding the country's past atrocities angered many people. An Augusta triumph may not change how one feels about DeChambeau, but it will launch him back into the sport's forefront.
Following Saturday's 3-over showing, he sits alone in fifth place going into Sunday. Catastrophic rounds have denied so many talented players the right to be immortalized in history at the Masters. Though, perhaps DeChambeau got all the jitters out of his system with his poor Round 3 performance.
He is due to tee off at 2:15 p.m. ET, with the weather conditions expected to be the best they have been all weekend. This big swinger is bound to leave a mark, one way or another.
Follow Us
Subscribe