DeChambeau hits a tee shot
The International Series presented by DLF made its highly anticipated debut in India last week, bringing some of the biggest names in golf to the country. Among them was Bryson DeChambeau, the two-time U.S. Open champion and one of the sport’s most influential figures. India Golf Weekly sat down with the Rolex Testimonee for an exclusive interview, discussing his first impressions of India, his thoughts on the global expansion of golf, and the future of the sport amid ongoing structural changes.
Exclusive Interview With Bryson DeChambeau
IGW: This is your first time in India and at the DLF G&CC. What has your initial impression been like, and is there anything you’re curious to experience outside the golf course?
BDC: I went to the Taj Mahal yesterday—that was a lot of fun, and we had a great day. We went to Agra, and it was a fantastic experience. You know, the thing about India is that the streets are pretty crazy, but the people are really loving, kind, and caring. I think it’s such a cool juxtaposition—it’s also a great expression of what love is and what India represents. There’s this ability to have a bit of chaos while still having that connection between people.
The food has also been interesting for me. As an American, I’m not used to the spices, so it’s taking a little time to adjust, but luckily, I’ve had some really nice meals and have enjoyed the food tremendously. Nothing too crazy yet—I’ve got to play good golf this week! That’s the main goal.
IGW: The International Series India is historic for Indian golf, and your presence here is a big part of its inception and the effort to grow the sport in untapped markets. Do you feel a sense of responsibility to help bridge these gaps and usher in representation from new countries that have yet to break out on global tours?
BDC: I think golf is a force for good. LIV Golf and the International Series are incredible platforms—not just for the game itself, but for diplomacy, community building, and economic growth. There’s so much positivity in what golf can bring to different regions.
DLF has been an incredible sponsor, hosting this event and creating tremendous value for the area by bringing in top talent. You’ve got players like Paul Casey, Joaquin Niemann, Carlos Ortiz, and of course, Anirban Lahiri. The level of talent out here is impressive, and the difficulty of the course makes for a true test of golf. This event proves that Indian golf is here to stay. I’ll definitely be back—that’s the goal!
IGW: The game has expanded into so many different domains, from LIV Golf to TGL. How do you perceive the dispersal of talent across different tours, and has this affected your approach in any way?
BDC: I think at some point, there will be a great restructuring. What that looks like, I don’t know. But what I do know is that golf is better together than apart. As time progresses, the best format for the game will emerge—we just have to let the egos down.
IGW: The ongoing merger talks between LIV Golf and the PGA TOUR have been a long-drawn process with no clear verdict in sight. What do you anticipate this integration could mean for the future of golf, and how do you see your role evolving within this new dynamic?
BDC: I hope I can influence it in a positive way. My wish is to engage with both sides and say, “Hey, I’m a bit of a mediator—what do you guys want, what do they want, and how can we find common ground?”
IGW: You’ve spoken about how hitting the next milestone and “leveling up” are strong motivators for you—not just individually, but as a leader and enabler. How does being a Rolex Testimonee feed into that philosophy of giving back to your community and growing the sport globally?
BDC: First off, being part of the Rolex family has always inspired me. Even from a young age, seeing legends like Arnold Palmer and what he did for the game—giving back, growing the sport globally, and being associated with Rolex—was really impactful to me.
That’s what Rolex does so well. They’re not just one-dimensional; they’re global. It doesn’t matter your race, creed, ethnicity, or culture—they are part of a force for good, and that’s what I truly respect about them. Their commitment to growing the game and showcasing that we’re here to help is something I want to be part of. That’s why I love Rolex.
IGW: The unpredictable playing conditions at the DLF Golf Course bring a new and unfamiliar challenge. How have you prepared for the unexpected elements this week might bring?
BDC: Today was the first time I saw the full golf course, and honestly, there’s really no way to prepare for it. You just have to go out there and execute the best shots you can while keeping the ball in the fairway. If you do that, you can play this course. If not, you’re going to struggle out here.
The Global Footprint Of Rolex In Golf
Rolex’s deep association with golf dates back to 1967 when Arnold Palmer became its first Testimonee in the sport, joined by fellow icons Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player. Over the decades, the brand has expanded its presence, supporting all major championships, elite tours, and amateur events worldwide. Beyond competition, Rolex remains dedicated to fostering integrity, expertise, and the development of golf across generations.
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