Bryson DeChambeau’s epic victory – and indeed Rory McIlroy’s crushing collapse – at the U.S. Open was perhaps the golf highlight of 2024, although some questions were raised over the legitimacy of his equipment.

LIV Golf star DeChambeau led by three going into the final round at Pinehurst No. 2 in June, only for McIlroy to take control and close in on his first major victory in a decade. But the Northern Irishman blew a two-shot lead over the final five holes, opening the door for the American, who never looked back and won his second U.S. Open title.

DeChambeau is one of the quirkier stars in elite golf, particularly when it comes to his equipment, which he has played a defining role in designing. His custom putter, in particular, is unconventional, locking the grip against his forearm for greater control.

Veteran PGA Tour caddie Kip Henley was among the millions glued to the gripping action at home during the tournament, and he suggested DeChambeau’s putter should come under scrutiny from the United States Golf Association to ensure it met regulations.

“If I’m a player around the lead in the U.S. Open, I would ask the USGA to check the specs on this putter,” Henley posted on X. “The shaft has to lean away from the head at least 10 degrees. It sure looks vertical. Not being a —- or hate him at all, but it is a rule.”

DeChambeau profited from Rory McIlroy's collapse to win his second major title

DeChambeau profited from Rory McIlroy’s collapse to win his second major title ( 

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Getty)

Henley, who last looped for the late Grayson Murray before they parted ways last year, later claimed he was joking after being pressed on his remarks by PGA Tour member Andrew Putnam.

“Probably should request a driver equipment check too; he’s hitting it too far and straight,” Putman posted. “Also, drug test his caddie [Greg Bodine]. He’s way too calm and having too much fun for it being a U.S. Open.”

Just moments later, Henley replied: “Lol. I don’t hate the boy, at all, and I completely love his looper Bodine! He’s a way better carrier than me. I was just giving us something to talk about. I’m fine with Desham winning!!”

The following morning, Henley insisted he was trying to make a joke. He said: “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, you people have lost your minds! Don’t you think I would understand that Bryson’s equipment has been inspected 1,000 times, and his putter would certainly be conforming?

“It was a tongue-in-cheek tweet that I knew would rile some of you up. This is the easiest pot I ever stirred.

“[Putnam] got it quickly and threw his funny jab. Would any true golfer think Bryson’s putter hasn’t been inspected 100 times? They measure the thickness and rebounding qualities of drivers, for God’s sake.”