Bryson DeChambeau Penalized 2 Strokes After Heated Exchange with British Open Officials on Video

Bryson DeChambeau had a heated exchange with rules officials at the Open Championship on Friday regarding whether he improved his lie as he played the fifth hole in the second round.

The discussion occurred after DeChambeau finished his round. Eventually, the R&A ruled that he improved his lie and penalized him two strokes, per Golf Digest.

DeChambeau initially carded a four-under 66 to finish seven-under through two rounds, good enough for solo second and just one shot back of tournament leader Lucas Herbert. However, the penalty dropped him to five under and a tie for fifth with Si Woo Kim and Sam Burns.

Golf Channel provided a thorough discussion of the situation.

DeChambeau started the drivable 326-yard par-four by hitting his tee shot 257 yards well right and into tall grass. He then hit a provisional shot before looking for his original tee shot.

DeChambeau did find that ball and then tried to figure out the best way to play that shot. As he did so, he walked over nearby grass. The question seems to be whether those steps gave DeChambeau more room on his second shot.

It certainly didn't seem like DeChambeau intentionally tried to step on surrounding grass to give himself a better chance. The question of whether those steps ultimately ended up doing so is up for debate.

Todd Lewis of Golf Channel talked with DeCheambeau and his camp. In essence, they don't feel any walking or trampling over grass improved his lie or gave a better path for his swing.

The R&A doesn't agree, and DeChambeau now certainly feels he was unfairly penalized, to the point where it was unclear if he would even play. Kevin Van Valkenburg of Fried Egg Golf relayed comments from DeChambeau's agent, Brett Falkoff.

DeChambeau was practicing on the range even after the decision was made. Van Valkenburg provided the scenes, including DeChambeau offering snacks to media.

However, DeChambeau soon made clear that he would play.

He will tee of Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET with Sam Burns.