Historic 62s and Penalty Drama Define British Open Second Round

The 2026 British Open saw record-breaking performances from Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns, who both carded rounds of 62. The excitement was tempered by a controversial two-stroke penalty issued to Bryson DeChambeau, which significantly altered the leaderboard heading into the weekend.

The 2026 British Open at Royal Birkdale has delivered an unforgettable second round, marked by historic scoring and intense regulatory drama. Australian golfer Lucas Herbert and American Sam Burns have both etched their names into the sport's record books by shooting rounds of 62, matching the lowest score ever recorded in a men's major championship. These exceptional performances, however, unfolded against a backdrop of high-stakes tension and controversy, as players vied to make their mark on golf's oldest tournament.

How did Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns reach major championship history?

For Lucas Herbert, the journey to a record-equalling 62 was bittersweet. The Australian was within striking distance of the first-ever 61 in major history but missed a pivotal five-foot par putt on the 18th hole. Despite the disappointment, he set the clubhouse lead at eight-under par, solidifying his position as a serious contender for the weekend. Shortly thereafter, Sam Burns delivered a spectacular finish, chipping in from a bunker on the 18th hole to also card a 62, a feat he admitted he was unaware was a major record until later.

While the leaders grabbed headlines with their stellar play, Bryson DeChambeau found himself at the center of a significant officiating ruling. Initially posting a 66, DeChambeau was assessed a two-stroke penalty for a rules violation involving an intended swing path on the fifth hole, where officials determined he had improved his lie in thick grass. The ruling changed his score to a 68, shifting him from one shot behind the leader to three shots adrift, further compounding the drama at Royal Birkdale.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Bryson DeChambeau penalized at the British Open?

DeChambeau was penalized two strokes for a breach of Rule 8. Rules officials determined that he had inadvertently tamped down high grass in his intended swing path while preparing for a shot in thick rough at the fifth hole.

How many players have shot 62 in a major championship?

With their performances at the 2026 British Open, Lucas Herbert and Sam Burns became the sixth and seventh players in men's professional golf history to shoot a round of 62 at a major championship.