Bryson DeChambeau’s Surprising Claim About Scottie Scheffler’s College Days

In a stunning revelation that has sent ripples through the golfing world, Bryson DeChambeau, the two-time U.S. Open champion, recently shared a surprising anecdote about his college rival, Scottie Scheffler. Speaking after Scheffler’s commanding victory at The Open Championship 2025 at Royal Portrush, DeChambeau claimed that during their college days, Scheffler “wasn’t that good” and that he used to beat him “for fun.” This bold statement, laced with a mix of nostalgia and playful bravado, adds a fascinating layer to the narrative of Scheffler’s meteoric rise to becoming the world’s No. 1 golfer.

Scheffler’s performance at Royal Portrush was nothing short of a masterclass. The 29-year-old American clinched his first Claret Jug, finishing at 17-under-par with a final-round 68, four shots clear of the field. His dominance was evident in his exceptional iron play and a putting performance that left competitors in awe. Scheffler topped the field in Strokes Gained: Approach and Putting, a combination that proved unbeatable on the challenging links course. This victory marked his fourth major title, joining the likes of golfing legends Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, and Tiger Woods as one of the few to win the Masters, PGA Championship, and The Open before turning 30.

DeChambeau’s comment, made in the wake of Scheffler’s triumph, offers a glimpse into their shared history. Both hailing from the Dallas area, the two golfers faced off frequently during their college years, with DeChambeau at Southern Methodist University and Scheffler at the University of Texas. DeChambeau’s assertion that he used to outplay Scheffler with ease paints a picture of a time when the now-dominant world No. 1 was still honing his craft. It’s a reminder that even the greatest athletes start somewhere, often far from the polished brilliance they later display.

Yet, DeChambeau was quick to acknowledge Scheffler’s transformation. “He’s figured out a lot of stuff since then,” he admitted, praising the world No. 1’s relentless improvement. Scheffler’s journey from a college golfer who, in DeChambeau’s words, “wasn’t that good,” to a player who now commands the sport is a testament to his work ethic and adaptability. His putting, once a weak point, has become a weapon, as evidenced by his near-flawless performance at Royal Portrush, where he made 37 of 39 putts inside 10 feet.

DeChambeau himself had a remarkable tournament, rebounding from a disastrous opening-round 78 to finish at 9-under-par with a final-round 64, the lowest of the day. His 19 birdies over the final three rounds showcased his resilience and flair, earning him a top-10 finish and proving that he remains a force on golf’s biggest stages. However, he acknowledged the gap between himself and Scheffler, noting, “Scottie’s in a league of his own right now.” This admission underscores the respect DeChambeau has for his former rival, even as he reflects on their competitive past with a touch of humor.

The contrast between DeChambeau’s college-era dominance over Scheffler and the latter’s current supremacy adds intrigue to their rivalry. It’s a story that resonates beyond golf, touching on themes of growth, perseverance, and the unpredictable nature of success. Fans on social media have already begun buzzing about DeChambeau’s comment, with many sharing their own stories of underdog triumphs and unexpected rises to greatness. This narrative is tailor-made for platforms like Facebook, where personal anecdotes and tales of transformation tend to spark engagement and conversation.

As Scheffler basks in the glow of his latest major victory, the golfing world is left to ponder what’s next for the world No. 1. With three legs of the career Grand Slam already secured, only the U.S. Open stands between him and golfing immortality. Meanwhile, DeChambeau’s candid reflection serves as a reminder that even the greatest champions have their humble beginnings. For now, Scheffler’s Claret Jug victory cements his place among the elite, but DeChambeau’s playful jab adds a human touch to the narrative, inviting fans to wonder: what other surprises lie in the untold stories of golf’s biggest stars?