A recent Sports Illustrated report revealed that Bryson DeChambeau was excluded from competing in the Procore Championship, despite the participation of other members of the U.S. Ryder Cup team. Brandel Chamblee, a prominent golf analyst, backed the PGA Tour’s refusal to grant an exemption to DeChambeau, who is currently associated with LIV Golf. This decision comes amid Ryder Cup preparations scheduled for Bethpage Black in 2025.
Keegan Bradley, the captain of Team USA, expressed his preference for having his players compete in the Procore Championship as a warmup event ahead of the Ryder Cup. However, after reports surfaced about DeChambeau’s absence from the field, Chamblee quickly voiced his opinion in support of the Tour’s stance.
Chamblee’s Critique Highlights the Rift Between PGA Tour and LIV Golf
Answering a fan on social media, Chamblee initially praised Bryson DeChambeau, emphasizing his skill and impact on the sport. Yet he also issued a harsh critique of LIV Golf, the league backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which DeChambeau joined recently. Chamblee wrote on X:
“Bryson is a hell of a player…. But he comes dragging the baggage of a medievally funded, every word in support of, destroying the tour it speaks of, poorly ran, weakly competed tour of mostly malcontents who sought to turn their success in golf to a pro golf game changer…” —Brandel Chamblee, Golf Analyst
This condemnation reflects Chamblee’s enduring opposition to LIV Golf, which he sees as undermining the PGA Tour’s established structure. His criticism extends beyond DeChambeau to include other LIV members like Phil Mickelson. These statements have provoked backlash from LIV supporters and figures such as Anthony Kim.
Despite the criticism directed at the league, Chamblee has consistently acknowledged DeChambeau’s abilities and contributions as a professional golfer.
Chamblee Praised DeChambeau as a Positive Force in Golf
Last year, during analysis of the final U.S. Open round, where DeChambeau secured his second U.S. Open title in 2024, Chamblee was asked by a fan to share commendations about the golfer. He responded by highlighting DeChambeau’s influence and professionalism within the sport:
“Bryson is one of the best things to ever happen to golf. He’s a reminder that professional golf isn’t just about putting a number on the board but giving back to those that pay for their purses and privilege by fulfilling every media obligation, going beyond and further…” —Brandel Chamblee, Golf Analyst
Throughout his career as a commentator, Chamblee has showered praise on DeChambeau’s distinctive swing and his exceptional driving distance, at times drawing comparisons to legendary golfers such as Jack Nicklaus.
Implications of DeChambeau’s Exclusion for Ryder Cup and the PGA Tour
DeChambeau’s absence from the Procore Championship underscores the ongoing tension between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf participants. As Team USA prepares for the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in 2025, the decision to exclude a prominent player like DeChambeau reflects broader disputes within professional golf regarding allegiance and league participation.
Chamblee’s staunch defense of the PGA Tour’s approach indicates the potential for continued friction as the sport grapples with maintaining competitive integrity while integrating new formats and players. Fans and players alike will be watching closely to see how these dynamics affect team unity and tournament outcomes in the lead-up to the Ryder Cup.