Despite the Saudi golf league speculation and some recent health issues, it appears we may see Bryson DeChambeau defend his title at the Arnold Palmer Invitational next week. At least, that's the plan.
Just after 5 p.m. ET on Friday evening, the weekly deadline for players to commit to the following week's event, the PGA Tour Communications Twitter account sent out the field list for the 2022 API at Bay Hill. DeChambeau, who captured the attention of the sports world at Bay Hill a year ago with his mammoth drives, was on the list:
DeChambeau has not personally confirmed it, but his agent, Brett Falkoff, told Golf Channel's Ryan Lavner the goal is to give it a go in Orlando.
"He’s doing everything he can to be there," Falkoff said. "As of now, his full intention is to play."
We last saw DeChambeau on the PGA Tour at the Farmers Insurance Open, where he missed the cut. He then withdrew from the Saudi International the following week, citing a left hand and left hip injury. Two weeks later, he announced that he would miss the Genesis Invitational at Riviera, stating that he was still in the process of rehabbing.
In that same announcement, DeChambeau said, "There are many false reports going around by the media that are completely inaccurate. Any news regarding my health or playing schedule will come directly from me and my team only. This is just another inaccurate report. I look forward to getting healthy and seeing everyone soon!"
Last Sunday, DeChambeau, amid speculation about his interest in the Saudi league, issued a statement that he would stay put on the PGA Tour.
Should DeChambeau return next Thursday, it would mark is first competitive round in a month, and just his third PGA Tour start since the Tour Championship at East Lake last September.
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