It’s not hard to spot Bryson DeChambeau on the PGA Tour.
You see that tall guy wearing the Ben Hogan-styled cap? You know, that bright young guy who majored in Physics at SMU who uses the same length irons – from the four iron down to his wedges. He’s the guy who swings those irons with a very upright swing using almost no wrist break – almost like a mechanical golfer.
Surely you’ve noticed that golfer who looks like his putter is surgically attached to his left forearm? (OK, and I won’t call you “Shirley”!)
On Sunday, Bryson DeChambeau just won his second PGA tournament in the past 12 months by taking the Memorial Tournament outside of Columbus, Ohio. He won it in a three-man playoff by besting Kyle Stanley and Ben An. He closed out the win by sinking a downhill putt for a birdie on the second playoff hole.
With the win, DeChambeau was able to receive a congratulatory handshake from none other than Jack Nicklaus, the host for this event. During the exchange, DeChambeau told golf’s greatest champion that it was an honor to win his tournament. He later commented to CBS Sports reporter Peter Kostis, “To be able to win [Jack Nicklaus’] event is such an honor. He’s the greatest to play. I’m speechless.”
There’s just something unique about the 24-year old DeChambeau that has made me a fan. His dapper on-course style reminds me of the late Payne Stewart. His inner confidence and smart play around the golf course is reminiscent of Gary Player. DeChambeau’s self-styled swing is uniquely his just like Jim Furyk’s unusual but highly effective swing of the golf club.
And, on Sunday, some of his wayward tee shots helped DeChambeau to channel his inner Phil Mickelson, too. He hit only five fairways on the day but was able to rescue enough shots to edge his way into the sudden-death playoff.
Bryson DeChambeau is one of only five golfers who have won both the NCAA individual championship and the US Amateur during the same year.
The others? Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, and Ryan Moore. That’s some pretty heady company!
So you can call him quirky or stiff or whatever you like.
Just call Bryson DeChambeau a winner!