Rory McIlroy ends feud with Bryson DeChambeau in classy Irish Open response

Rory McIlroy has put his long-running feud with Bryson DeChambeau to rest with a measured response to reports that DeChambeau could tee it up at this year’s Irish Open.

What happened?

On 20 July 2026, Rory McIlroy told reporters at the Scottish Open that he’s happy to see Bryson DeChambeau at the Irish Open if the American decides to make the trip. The comment came after DeChambeau suggested he might play the event in Northern Ireland, which McIlroy hosts annually. McIlroy said he’s focused on his own game and wants the field to be as strong as possible.

Why it matters for Rory McIlroy

McIlroy’s response signals a thaw in a rivalry that has simmered since their heated exchanges at the 2023 WM Phoenix Open. The Irish Open is McIlroy’s home tournament, and his willingness to embrace a bigger field-even one that includes a former sparring partner-shows his growth. It also keeps the event’s profile high ahead of its return to the European Tour calendar.

What comes next?

McIlroy is in action this week at the Scottish Open, where he’ll look to build momentum ahead of the British Open at Royal Troon. If DeChambeau does tee it up in Ireland, the two could go head-to-head on the same island in back-to-back weeks. McIlroy’s focus remains on his own performance, but the optics of a full-field Irish Open could draw extra eyes.

The bigger picture

The Irish Open has struggled to attract top-tier fields in recent years, and McIlroy’s push for stronger competition aligns with his role as a global ambassador for the sport. His classy handling of the DeChambeau question contrasts with their past clashes, and it might just help sell tickets-and ratings-in 2026.