Bryson DeChambeau claims ‘couple thousand’ fans have touched US Open trophy

Bryson DeChambeau is all set for even more fans to get up close and personal with his U.S. Open trophy, after hinting that “a couple thousand” have already had their chance.

Just last week at Pinehurst No. 2, DeChambeau snatched victory from Rory McIlroy’s grasp after the latter missed crucial putts towards the end of the U.S. Open. The American delivered a stroke of genius on the 18th hole, blasting an incredible shot from the bunker to pave the way for the winning par putt.

DeChambeau has been a polarising character in the golf world but has recently won over a legion of fans, partly due to his engaging YouTube channel. Following his triumph in securing a second major title, DeChambeau expressed his desire for fans to feel the trophy, seeing it as a way to thank them for their support during the competition.

The 30 year old golfer was spotted walking around the 18th green, offering fans the chance to lay hands on the trophy, and he didn’t stop there; he’s showcased the trophy on Jimmy Fallon’s Tonight Show and many other places. With LIV Golf Nashville on the horizon, DeChambeau continued to let admirers handle the prestigious award.

READ MORE: Rory McIlroy’s caddie stance is clear after US Open finger of blame pointed
READ MORE: Rory McIlroy ‘best hitter out there’ as ex-agent makes major championship prediction

When quizzed on Wednesday about how many people have touched the trophy since his win, DeChambeau estimated: “Probably a couple thousand by now at least. And it’s going to increase. It’s going to be a lot of fun.”

After clinching his victory, DeChambeau couldn’t contain his joy as he vigorously high-fived fans, a display that reflected both the significance of his win and the impact of their support. When discussing his progression from being a bold and overconfident character to a people’s champion, DeChambeau couldn’t hide his gratitude and simply said: “I’m humbled. Very humbled by it.”

During his press conference which lasted about half an hour, DeChambeau – who had the U.S. Open trophy and Jack Nicklaus medal besides him – touched on the tremendous support he has received of late. The American enjoyed overwhelming backing at Pinehurst, experiencing unsurpassed fan approval as he competed against another incredibly popular figure, McIlroy.

“When I was younger, I felt like I was called to do something in the game,” an emotional DeChabeau confessed. “Getting to this point in my life where I’ve had struggles, I’ve done some things I shouldn’t have done, said some things I shouldn’t have said, and messing up and learning from those mistakes and learning patience, resilience, determination, continuing to grow in that capacity and then getting to a place where I finally get to showcase my true self and show others what this great game means to me. It’s given me so much. It’s time for me to give back.”

“That’s what I love most. That’s why this was so important for everyone to touch the trophy. I wanted everybody to experience it because it wasn’t just for me, it was for the turnaround, everyone looking at me going, wow, that person is different than what I thought. It was for them, those people that saw who I now am, who I am. That’s what I wanted people to feel is that involvement, that appreciation from me saying thank you. It meant a lot.”

DeChambeau is set to return to LIV Golf action in Nashville this week, marking the season’s ninth event. The golfing spectacle kicks off from June 21 to 23 at The Grove.