While they may not have always seen eye to eye, Brooks Koepka and Bryson DeChambeau have emerged as leading figures in the LIV Golf universe. After overcoming a once icy relationship, the American pair have found common ground, and with both focusing on the growth of LIV, they are now in a position to build stronger ties.
The pair demonstrated their newfound camaraderie when they partnered for ‘The Showdown,’ squaring off against Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler in late 2021.
However, beyond his accomplishments as a two-time major champion, DeChambeau has carved out a unique niche for himself as a prominent YouTube content creator. Not one to shy away from an opinion, Koepka has openly shared his thoughts on his compatriot’s digital endeavors.
In a candid chat with Joe Pompliano on the Joe Pomp Show, the conversation inevitably steered towards the growing influence of YouTube and streaming platforms on golf. When asked about DeChambeau’s YouTube activities, Koepka was forthcoming in his admiration for the impact DeChambeau is making on the sport.
Koepka praised DeChambeau, saying, “Bryson has excelled on YouTube. He’s done remarkably well for himself and his team. Whatever he’s currently involved in, he’s spinning it into gold. It’s impressive to watch.”
While Koepka admitted that he hasn’t kept up with Phil Mickelson’s content, he has been following DeChambeau’s digital journey, saying that it’s fascinating to watch the direction the sport is heading.
But the path to their current camaraderie hasn’t been without its bumps. The infamous disagreement between the two American powerhouses dates back to 2019 when Koepka expressed frustration over DeChambeau’s slow play. He questioned the need for taking a minute and twenty seconds to hit a golf ball. DeChambeau responded by suggesting he was playing within the rules and that if Koepka had a problem, the game should make changes.
The tension escalated when DeChambeau made a disparaging comment about Koepka’s caddie’s weight. Koepka responded on social media, alluding to his four major titles and stating that he was ‘two short of a six-pack’.
The animosity reached its peak at the PGA Championship in 2021 when DeChambeau interrupted a Koepka interview. The visibly irritated Koepka was caught on camera rolling his eyes at DeChambeau’s antics.
Despite their past, it seems that Koepka and DeChambeau have found a way to coexist in harmony, at least for now. With their joint interest in the future of LIV Golf and a shared respect for each other’s success, the golfing world can look forward to more from this dynamic duo.