Bryson DeChambeau will go to extraordinary lengths to win on the golf course.
The controversial American is a polarizing figure, but you cannot deny that he is box office.
LIV Golf is in Adelaide this week — an event known for boozy fans and a party atmosphere to rival the infamous Phoenix Open.
The famous ‘Watering Hole’ lived up to its name in Friday’s first round as Patrick Reed was doused in beer after hitting a hole-in-one.
Not to be upstaged, DeChambeau produced another viral sensation as he joined a group of fans on a balcony.
The big-driving superstar hit a wayward tee shot into a patch of shrubs and couldn’t see the green.
So he quickly dashed up the steps to join the cheering supporters, caught a rangefinder thrown by his caddie, and worked out how far away he was from the flag.
DeChambeau chipped out and almost made a stunning par but ended up carding a bogey to move to one-under for his round.
Playing partner Abraham Ancer ended the second round in a share of the lead on nine-under despite being distracted by DeChambaeu’s antics.
“I was in the middle of the fairway, and he blocked it right, and off the tee you can’t really see where that would land because there’s some trees,” the Mexican said.
“Myself and DJ (Dustin Johnson) were in disbelief, ‘Like where did he find that ball.’
“He ended up hitting it in the middle of the fairway from the bush, and I think he almost made par, which would have been insane.
“I see him in the house on the balcony. I had no idea what was going on.”
DeChambeau’s all-action round included several bogeys but he also drove the ball 415 yards onto the green on the par four 15th.
The 31-year-old was one of the most high-profile names to jump on the breakaway tour in golf’s acrimonious split.
Talks are being held which could see LIV and the PGA Tour reunite for the benefit of the game.
And Rory McIlroy, who initially took a hard stance on those who joined the splinter group, would like to see DeChambeau back in PGA events.
“There are guys that were on the PGA Tour that went to play on LIV, and if they still have status, sure, come back, come back and play,” said the Northern Irishman.
“For us, all of us have equity in this tour, so having Bryson DeChambeau come back and play on this tour is good.
“Do I think he should (have equity in the PGA Tour)? I think he should have the ability to earn equity.
“We have been given equity in this tour as a, I guess, quote, unquote, compensation, like for being loyal in some way or staying.
“But I think these guys coming back, I think they should have the opportunity to earn equity, which I think will happen.
“There’s going to be these recurring equity grants every year, so I think they should have the opportunity to earn it, but I don’t think they should be given it right away.”
