Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau both show class in heat of US Open battle
Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau are battling it out for the U.S. Open title at Pinehurst No. 2 but had time to share a special moment with a fan at the ninth hole
Both Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau showed their class during the final round of the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, taking the time to meet and great a fan who was waiting by the 10th green in a wheelchair.
Both DeChambeau and McIlroy find themselves in the heat of battle in North Carolina, with the U.S. Open crown up for grabs. DeChambeau headed into the round at seven-under, three shots clear of McIlroy who was joined by Mathieu Pavon and Patrick Cantlay at four-under.
Heading into the back nine though, the Northern Irishman found himself just one shot back of his LIV Golf rival after a birdie at the ninth, and gave himself a look at another at the par-five 10th one hole later.
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And McIlroy obliged, rolling in his putt from 27-feet to the tie lead for the very first time on championship Sunday. He was clearly in the mood to build on his momentum ahead of his hunt for a fifth major title, 10 years on from his last at the 2014 PGA Championship.
Despite being in game mode, the PGA Tour star still had time for a fan, who was waiting between the 10th green and 11th tee for McIlroy. Noticing the spectator in question, the European star stopped in his tracks before offering them a handshake and sharing a quick conversation.
DeChambeau meanwhile was playing in the group behind, and responded perfectly to being joined at the top by McIlroy. Despite finding trouble down the right off the tee, the American laid up into the fairway before playing a superb wedge shot into the green and tidying up for birdie.
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This of course ensured he took back the outright lead, with the home crowd firmly behind him. He too however took a pause from the drama unravelling behind him to stop and meet the same spectator in question. In an added touch of class, DeChambeau signed his hat before making his way to the 11th tee.
DeChambeau has often been a divisive figure during his professional career, but has seen his popularity grow over the past year, especially at Pinehurst this week. "They're awesome [the fans]. They've been super nice to me and it's fun feeding off that energy," he told Sky Sports.
"I love it. I've learned a lot about myself in general and what makes me not just a better golfer, but person - how can I be more entertaining and give the fans what they deserve?"
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