The professional golfing world is witnessing a significant shift in attitudes towards one of its most controversial figures – Bryson DeChambeau. Known for his unorthodox approach to the game and a personality often perceived as arrogant, DeChambeau has been a magnet for criticism. Yet, it seems like the tide is starting to turn, with fellow golfers and influencers now advocating a softer stance towards the LIV superstar.
DeChambeau’s contentious relationship with fans and fellow golfers, notably his fiery rivalry with Brooks Koepka, has earned him a fair share of mockery. The nickname “Brooksy,” coined in jest, became a metaphorical thorn in the golfer’s side. But the narrative seems to be changing, indicating that DeChambeau’s personality might be more multifaceted than previously assumed.
One of the surprising voices in DeChambeau’s defense is Paige Spiranac, a prominent figure in the golfing world. Initially critical of DeChambeau’s demeanor, she even publicly rebuked him during a 2020 tournament for what she believed was arrogance. However, after collaborating on a YouTube video and meeting him in person, Spiranac made a 180-degree turn. She lauded DeChambeau’s kindness and humor, describing him as the “total opposite” of her initial impression. “I was one of Bryson’s biggest haters,” Spiranac confessed. “But after getting to know him, I realized that what you see on social media isn’t the full story.”
Rory McIlroy, despite his agonizing defeat to DeChambeau at the U.S. Open, also expressed admiration for his competitor’s impact on the game. The loss extended McIlroy’s drought for another major win to five painful years. But rather than dwelling on the defeat, he praised DeChambeau for making golf more thrilling and expressed his eagerness to compete against him more frequently. “He has made the game of golf more exciting this year,” McIlroy acknowledged.
Internet personality Dan Rapaport weighed in on DeChambeau’s struggle with public perception, stating, “Bryson wants to be loved… he wasn’t enjoying being hated.” DeChambeau’s past few years have been strewn with trials, from physical challenges like a torn hip labrum and a fractured hand to the emotional trauma of losing his father, Jon, to diabetes and kidney failure. According to Rapaport, DeChambeau did not relish his controversial status.
However, DeChambeau himself has taken steps to change the narrative. His active presence on YouTube has allowed him to engage with fans and reveal more of his authentic self. His fellow golfer, Rickie Fowler, points out that YouTube has allowed people to see DeChambeau for the golf enthusiast that he truly is.
Despite the growing interest in his story, DeChambeau has chosen to stay away from Netflix’s golf docuseries, Full Swing. The show has been a game-changer for the sport, drawing in new audiences. While DeChambeau’s US Open victory will be featured in the upcoming season, the golfer declined to participate in the show, turning down an interview offer.
Chad Mumm, the executive producer of Full Swing, expressed disappointment but remained optimistic. He praised DeChambeau’s media presence, particularly his engaging press conferences and YouTube content. “We did a really good effort of telling his story without his direct point of view,” Mumm said. “It is still a really good portrayal of Bryson.”
Despite his absence from Full Swing, DeChambeau continues to use his YouTube channel to showcase his experiences and personality, crafting his public image on his own terms. It seems that while DeChambeau is keen on changing public opinion, he wants to do it his way.
