Bryson DeChambeau was confident heading into the final round of the Masters, believing his game was strong enough to win. After moving ahead of Rory McIlroy early on Sunday, he felt his chances were solid. However, DeChambeau’s extensive time spent on the Augusta National practice range—hitting more golf balls than anyone else in the field—hinted that something wasn’t quite right with his game.
His struggles quickly became apparent, as he lost his lead and couldn’t keep pace with the leaders. A double bogey on the 11th hole essentially ended his chances, and he finished four shots behind McIlroy and Justin Rose, who eventually went into a sudden-death playoff. McIlroy won the playoff with a birdie.
Reflecting on his performance, DeChambeau admitted that poor iron play cost him the chance to win. “If I just had somewhat of good iron play this week, it would have been a lot different outcome,” he said.
As always, DeChambeau’s focus remained on his equipment. Known for his interest in tweaking his gear, he expressed excitement about upcoming adjustments. “It just wasn’t tight, wasn’t dialed in,” he explained, noting that he had been hitting shots off the heel of his irons. “We got some irons in that’s got some more weight on the toe, which helps dramatically. But we haven’t got the front edge just right yet. I can’t wait. You’re going to see some new equipment here very, very soon.”
The two-time U.S. Open champion, LIV Golf team captain, and YouTube personality closed with a 3-over 75 on Sunday, following three solid rounds in the 60s. DeChambeau had entered the final round in a strong position to challenge McIlroy, but the changing conditions at Augusta National threw him off. He struggled with the fast greens, even three-putting from 23 feet on the par-4 third hole. “Those greens got really fast,” he said. “I just didn’t realize how firm and fast it could get out here. It’s great experience. Won’t let that happen again.”
Other miscues followed, including a missed iron shot on the par-3 fourth hole that led to another bogey, and a double bogey on the 11th when his shot veered too far left into a pond. DeChambeau acknowledged his mistakes, saying, “I just tried to hit a draw in there and it started five degrees left and I’m like, ‘You’ve got to be kidding me.’”
Despite the frustration, DeChambeau took pride in the opportunity to compete alongside McIlroy in the final pairing. While McIlroy kept to himself, focusing intently on the competition, DeChambeau made sure to engage with the fans. “Didn’t talk to me once all day,” DeChambeau said of McIlroy. “He was just like—just being focused, I guess. It’s not me, though.”
