Bryson DeChambeau arrived at Augusta National as one of the heavy favorites for the Masters, riding high from back-to-back wins on the LIV Golf circuit. Yet, his tournament ended abruptly with a missed cut, a shocking result that has now sparked criticism from former Ryder Cup player Andrew Coltart.

Coltart took aim not at DeChambeau's play, but at his pre-tournament focus. The criticism centers on a moment captured before the competition even began: DeChambeau, a two-time U.S. Open champion, was seen giving comedian Kevin Hart an impromptu golf lesson during the relaxed Par Three Contest.

For Coltart, this was a misstep in priorities. On the Sky Sports Golf Podcast, he questioned the optics, asking, "What’s more important? Your followers or winning major championships?" He contrasted it with legends of the game, stating, "You think Seve Ballesteros would be giving a lesson? Come on, that’s just a joke that is."

While a single lesson didn't cause DeChambeau's triple-bogey on the 18th that sealed his fate, the narrative stings in hindsight. It highlights the modern tension for star athletes between competitive focus and building a personal brand, especially for a player like DeChambeau who actively cultivates a YouTube following.

The disappointment extended beyond one player. In a surprising twist for the rival league, Tyrrell Hatton was the only LIV Golf representative to finish inside the top 30—a stark contrast to their recent major performances. Coltart suggested the less demanding venues on the LIV schedule might leave players underprepared for the ultimate test of a major championship setup.

For DeChambeau, a player known for his scientific approach, this Masters week became a lesson in perception. It's a reminder that in the high-stakes arena of major championship golf, every action, even before the first tee shot, is part of the story.