Accusations have emerged that Bryson DeChambeau threatened to contact Donald Trump while disputing with senior R&A officials on Friday after the American received a two-stroke penalty during the Open.

DeChambeau's alleged reference to the US president in the argument adds another unusual twist to what has become the leading storyline of the 2026 Open.

The penalty was applied for improving his swing path by standing on tall grass behind the ball at Royal Birkdale's fifth hole in round two. The 32-year-old strongly contested the ruling and insisted on returning to the spot alongside the R&A's head of governance and a senior referee.

Once back at the scoring area with officials holding firm, chief executive Mark Darbon joined the discussion. It is reported that DeChambeau indicated he would call Trump if the matter was not resolved to his satisfaction. No evidence confirms any call was made. DeChambeau avoided standard media responsibilities throughout the tournament. The R&A has declined to address the Trump reference.

Trump stays in regular contact with several leading golfers including DeChambeau. The pair shared a friendly exchange at last year's Ryder Cup. DeChambeau had previously stated that Trump would motivate the US team at Bethpage.

The penalty, which Rory McIlroy later confirmed was justified, dropped DeChambeau from second place. After Saturday's round he went straight to Darbon's office to request his round two scorecard. The unusual request was politely declined by the R&A chief executive.

DeChambeau has remained in the UK to compete in LIV Golf's event at the JCB Golf and Country Club beginning Thursday. His tied 14th finish at the Open represented his best major result of 2026.

DeChambeau's representatives have been contacted for comment.