Brandel Chamblee Critiques LIV Golf’s Top Players Following Major Disappointments
Brandel Chamblee, a commentator for Golf Channel, has once again raised concerns about LIV Golf’s approach to its star players, particularly Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, after a disappointing performance during a recent major event.
Chamblee often seizes opportunities to critique LIV Golf, and he did not hold back during the PGA Championship. He highlights that the four major tournaments are the only genuine platforms where players from traditional tours and LIV Golf compete for significant titles, suggesting a reason for Rahm’s and DeChambeau’s struggles against Scottie Scheffler at Quail Hollow.
“It’s crucial where you compete to stay sharp and test your limits,” Chamblee expressed. “They’re not facing the toughest competition week after week, while Scottie Scheffler is consistently at the top level.”
Scheffler started the final round with a three-shot advantage but was far from his best, dropping shots early on and keeping the competition alive. Rahm, who hasn’t been a contender since joining LIV in late 2023, briefly leveled the scores after a birdie at the 11th, but faltered in the final stretch with a disappointing finish.
In the case of DeChambeau, a couple of late birdies initially ignited hopes, but a series of pars and a bogey on the final hole allowed Scheffler to solidify his lead. Chamblee, a vocal opponent of LIV, took this chance to further criticize the lack of competitiveness among its players.
Chamblee renewed his critique about the decline in form of most LIV players, suggesting the league’s structure and the absence of competition are detrimental. He proposed remedies like increasing tournament length and introducing open qualifying spots, citing the lack of interest in player development from LIV’s management.
Despite his sharp criticisms, Chamblee acknowledged Rahm for addressing the media post-collapse, particularly contrasting him with Rory McIlroy, who avoided interviews during the tournament. Rahm expressed enjoyment in competing and reminisced about his loyalty to the PGA Tour, adding complexity to the narrative surrounding his transition to LIV.
