Ignoring LIV Rivalry, Tour Pro Sends Meaningful Message to Bryson DeChambeau After a Disheartening Moment Hit Him at Valhalla

The 2024 PGA Championship concluded with Xander Schauffele making history by recording 263 strokes over his four rounds, the lowest-scoring total in major championship history. While the champion finished his final round with a birdie on the 18th hole to end 21-under par, another golfer also captured significant attention. Bryson DeChambeau, who shot 19 birdies and 2 eagles for a total of 264, finished 20-under-par. He fell short of victory by just one stroke, resulting in a disheartening moment. A PGA Tour pro stepped in to shower praise on the LIV golfer.

After the tournament concluded, DeChambeau posted a few pictures from the week on Instagram with a motivational message. “If you ain’t first, you’re last. Congratulations to Xander. Eyes fixed on Pinehurst,” wrote the golfer. He emphasized that he will now be focusing on the 2024 US Open, scheduled from June 13–16. DeChambeau has put on quite a show at majors this year. He finished beautifully at T6 in Georgia too, and he stunned everyone. Min Woo Lee, the popular PGA Tour pro lovingly known as Chef amongst the fans, commented on DeChambeau’s post, remarking “Good effort” with a fire emoji, appreciating the LIV golfer.

Before the final round, DeChambeau was tied for the T4 position. During the round, he excelled by shooting seven birdies, which helped him climb the leaderboard and finish as the sole runner-up. Although some pros on the PGA Tour are ignoring the LIV golfers because of the ever-lasting rivalry between the two leagues, Ever since LIV Golf’s inception in 2022, things between the two have been tight. Although some golfers, such as Rory McIlroy and Min Woo Lee, seem to open up and appreciate the talent that is there in the Saudi League, not everyone follows the pursuit.

Tiger Woods has ceased responding to Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm’s messages since they transitioned to LIV. In March 2023, DeChambeau disclosed to Golf Digest that he messaged Woods on his birthday, revealing, “He’s been a great friend. I texted him on his birthday. No text back after a birthday wish is tough.” A similar situation occurred with Rahm. In February of this year, he disclosed on ESPN, “I mean, Tiger, I texted him and the people that try to reach out, you know, the process when I signed, and I just let him know, ‘Hey, you know, this is a personal decision. I have nothing against anybody.” But he didn’t get any response either.

None of it mattered to Lee, as he acknowledged the stellar efforts that were put in at Valhalla despite DeChambeau’s association. The scientist not only earned appreciation for his performance but also won many hearts with his post-tournament gesture.

DeChambeau’s heartwarming gesture for a little kid

As the pro finished his round and made his way off the greens, the audience erupted in cheers and applause, showering praise for his efforts. While walking out, DeChambeau tossed his ball to a kid, and the child was unable to catch it. An adult man standing behind the kid caught it and tried to go away with it, prompting the golfer to take a step back and call him out, saying, “Give the ball back.” The pro patiently waited until the ball was in the right hands, and this gesture overall turned into a wholesome moment.

Even after this video went viral, featuring this gesture, the comment section overflowed with respect and affection for the golfer. One commenter even stated, “This is why Bryson is the man of the people,” emphasizing how he didn’t just toss the ball and walk away, but instead returned to ensure it reached its intended recipient.

Another comment read, “This is awesome. A hero the kid will forever remember,” underscoring the remarkable nature of the moment and labeling the golfer a “hero.” This sentiment highlights how the incident will be a lasting memory for the child involved.

Do you think Bryson DeChambeau will be able to take it home at Pinehurst after two close calls this year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!