Bryson DeChambeau's Tough Masters Opening: Triple Bogey Derails First Round

DeChambeau's Masters Struggles Continue

Bryson DeChambeau entered the 2026 Masters riding high after consecutive LIV Golf victories, but Augusta National had other plans. The big-hitting American opened with a disappointing 76, largely derailed by a catastrophic triple bogey at the infamous 11th hole.

Amen Corner Claims Another Victim

The 11th hole proved problematic once again for DeChambeau, though this time from a different hazard than last year's water trouble. Sitting pretty in the fairway after his tee shot, DeChambeau's approach flew 12 yards longer than intended, finding the greenside bunker on the right side of the green.

What followed was a nightmare scenario: DeChambeau needed three attempts to escape the bunker, citing softer sand conditions than expected. "The bunker was softer than I anticipated," he explained after the round.

Iron Play Concerns

Beyond the 11th hole disaster, DeChambeau struggled with accuracy throughout the round, hitting only 8 greens in regulation. His driving was erratic, going left on numerous occasions, which prevented him from attacking the scoring opportunities on the back nine par 5s at holes 13 and 15.

Weekend Outlook

The 76 represents DeChambeau's worst competitive round since a 78 at the 2025 Open Championship, where he recovered to finish T-10. However, Masters history shows that Craig Stadler's opening 75 in 1982 remains the worst first round by a eventual winner, suggesting DeChambeau faces a significant uphill battle.

Strokeslab Analysis

DeChambeau's struggles highlight the unique challenge Augusta National presents even to players in peak form. His recent LIV Golf success couldn't translate to major championship precision when it mattered most.