How Bryson DeChambeau's caddie inspired US Open victory on final hole

Bryson DeChambeau, the U.S. Open champion, has credited his caddie Greg Bodine for boosting his confidence before nailing a crucial bunker shot on the 18th hole that clinched his second major title. DeChambeau was under pressure after Rory McIlroy faltered, dropping three shots in four holes, leaving the door ajar for the American golfer.

Despite battling with his driver all day, DeChambeau's tee shot on the final hole veered left into the rough. His subsequent punch out landed in the bunker, from where he had to secure an up-and-down to seize victory at Pinehurst.

The 30-year-old rose to the occasion, executing a masterful 55-yard bunker shot to within four feet of the pin. Sinking the putt sparked jubilant celebrations as DeChambeau secured his second U.S Open title, his first being at Winged Foot in 2020.

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When asked what he will remember most from the final two hours of the finale, DeChambeau said: "Probably my caddie telling me you can do it on 18 out of that bunker. Greg telling me, ‘You got this shot. I've seen way harder shots pulled off from you’."

He also highlighted the significant role Bodine has played in his personal growth and success, noting how his caddie has been instrumental in transforming him into a better person and helping him through difficult times.

"Oh, man. Yeah, I was struggling," DeChambeau frankly admitted. "I didn't know where my game was. I had no idea what was going on. Greg was in a place where he was starting a business, Evergreen. He was in a place where he didn't know what was going to go on. Some family stuff happened. It was just a weird moment for him and for me.

"I guess it was fate. The two lives that were in some despair got brought together to make each other better. I feel like that's what's happened. He gave me a chance. I said, 'I don't know what I'm going to give you. I don't know what game I have. You may hate what I have, and I might not like the way you caddie.'

"He's very mellow, somebody that I've never - I've had a lot of A-type personalities. They've worked great; I've done very well. But he's been a special human being for me in my life, getting me to realise what life is about. It's not just all about golf. He works hard. He's a diligent worker. Brings the best out of me."