2026-04-09 10:32:17
Bryson DeChambeau is looking forward to renewing his rivalry with Rory McIlroy at The Masters.
The American golfer claimed that McIlroy “did not talk to him” during the final round at Augusta last year but has revealed that he is hoping to go head-to-head against the Northern Irishman this week.
DeChambeau told reporters: “It’s great if we can continue to have a rivalry. I don’t see any problem with that. If anything, it kind of helps create more buzz around the game of golf.
“Do I respect him as an individual? 100 per cent. Do I want to beat him every time I see him? Absolutely, there’s no question about it.
“I think that’s what’s so brilliant about the game of golf is that juxtaposition, having that sportsmanlike respect and then wanting to just absolutely beat the living you know what out of him.
“It’s one of those things – like I got him at Pinehurst [No 2, 2024 US Open], he got me here [2025 Masters]. I hope there’s more of those to come because it’s great for the game.”
DeChambeau was in the final group with McIlroy during 2025’s closing round but dropped back to finish in a tie for fifth and says that the setback was a “great learning lesson”.
The two-time US Open champion said: “It [losing] was a great learning lesson. Leading or being tied for the lead and having the lead, that last group final round, gave me a lot of perspective on it.
“Then losing it and having things not go my way as they finished out and Rory completed the Grand Slam. Last year he earned it, right? It was really cool to see in person.
“As I reflect back on it, the one thing I can take from it is that I can put myself in those positions. The more I put myself in those positions, the better opportunities I’m going to have to win.
“It’s just been a gradual learning process. You never know what this week may bring, but I certainly hope to give it my all and put myself back in that position because I want to feel it again.”
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