Bryson DeChambeau was in a tie for second place at the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. However, a potential rule violation on the fifth hole changed the course of his day.

Officials confronted DeChambeau about an incident involving his actions in the fescue on the fifth hole. DeChambeau, along with several officials and his caddie, engaged in an animated discussion near where he played his second shot.

After finding his ball in thick grass, DeChambeau appeared to trample the area behind his ball, flattening the rough. This raised the question of whether he was trying to improve his lie. During the conversation with officials, DeChambeau attempted to demonstrate his pre-shot routine, defending his actions. He claimed the flattened fescue was not affecting his swing.

Despite his explanations, officials decided to impose a two-stroke penalty. Following this decision, DeChambeau chose to head to the practice range, perhaps to relieve some frustration.

Initially, DeChambeau shot a four-under 68 on Friday. With the penalty, his score adjusted to 70, placing him in a tie for fifth at five under par.

The current leader of the tournament is Lucas Herbert, who shot a 62 on Friday, tying the record for the lowest score ever in a major round.