CBS golf announcer Jim Nantz is drawing intense criticism for what many are calling a lazy and dismissive attitude toward Bryson DeChambeau ahead of the 2026 Masters Tournament.
In a recent CBS Sports Masters preview, the veteran broadcaster admitted he hasn’t bothered to watch a single competitive shot from DeChambeau this year, despite the player’s red-hot form. Instead, Nantz took a shot at DeChambeau’s YouTube popularity.
“I have to confess, I have not seen Bryson hit a single shot this year. All I can go off of is the YouTube videos I’ve watched with my son,” Nantz said.
This comes as DeChambeau enters the Masters fresh off back-to-back individual wins on the LIV Golf circuit, including a dramatic playoff victory over Jon Rahm in South Africa following his triumph in Singapore. Those results have positioned him as the clear third betting favorite at around 10-1 odds, trailing only world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy — each listed at 5-1.
Critics argue that Nantz’s comments reveal a troubling lack of professionalism. It is literally part of his job as the lead voice of CBS golf coverage to stay informed on the form of players competing in the majors — especially one riding significant momentum. Yet he appears to treat modern golf as if it’s still the 1960s, ignoring the reality of hundreds of TV channels, streaming services, and widespread digital access.
LIV Golf events are broadcast live on the FOX Sports family of networks — the same outlet that carries the NFL, a league Nantz knows intimately through his long career. When Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs play, Nantz has no trouble flipping on FOX to watch. But apparently, tuning into LIV Golf for a few hours to track a legitimate Masters contender like DeChambeau (and Rahm) is too much to ask.
Many see this as more than simple oversight; it’s symptomatic of an outdated, traditionalist mindset that continues to downplay LIV Golf players despite their undeniable success and the tour’s established broadcast partnership with a major network.
Social media has lit up with accusations that Nantz is belittling DeChambeau’s achievements and failing to prepare properly for one of golf’s biggest events.
DeChambeau has built a massive following through his analytical style, content creation, and on-course results — including strong recent showings at Augusta. Dismissing that comes across as tone-deaf at best and petty at worst, especially from a broadcaster who has covered the Masters since 1989.
As the world’s first major of the year approaches, fans will be listening closely to Nantz’s calls. Will he finally show genuine familiarity with DeChambeau’s game, or will the veteran continue leaning on excuses that feel increasingly out of step with today’s sports media landscape?
DeChambeau, meanwhile, will look to silence any doubters with his clubs when play begins at Augusta National.
