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Bryson DeChambeau has fired fresh shots at Rory McIlroy ahead of Masters week, promising a heated battle at Augusta.
The rivalry between Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy has been reignited as both returned to Augusta National this week for the Masters. McIlroy arrives as defending champion after his dramatic 2025 victory, which included a tense final-round partnership with DeChambeau.
During that 2025 round, the pair clashed over who should putt first on the ninth green. McIlroy sank his attempt to reach 13 under par, while DeChambeau missed and had to settle for par. McIlroy went on to win the green jacket after a playoff against Justin Rose, while DeChambeau faded from contention. The incident sparked friction, with DeChambeau later claiming the pair "didn't speak" and tensions spilling over into the Ryder Cup five months later.
Back at Augusta this week, DeChambeau was keen to stoke the rivalry during a Tuesday press conference. "It's great if we can continue to have a rivalry," he said. "Do I respect him as an individual? One hundred percent. Do I want to beat him every time I see him? Absolutely."
He added that he hopes to "beat the living you know what" out of McIlroy this weekend, highlighting the mix of respect and competitive intensity that fuels their encounters. "I got him at Pinehurst [in the 2024 US Open], and he got me here [last year]. I hope there's more of those to come."
McIlroy, meanwhile, struck a calmer tone in his own press conference, which coincided with hosting his Champions Dinner. "For the past 17 years, I couldn't wait for the tournament to start. This year, I wouldn't care if it never started," he joked. He described feeling relaxed and comfortable on the course, enjoying the benefits of being a past champion while still motivated to compete.
With DeChambeau signalling a full-on challenge, and McIlroy confident and relaxed, the stage is set for a compelling Masters week and the rest of the field is likely to be caught up in the drama too.