Bryson DeChambeau will enter a PGA Tour event looking to defend a title for the first time in his career.

 

DeChambeau's breakthrough came last year at the John Deere Classic, which tees off on Thursday at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Illinois. After entering the final round four strokes off the pace, DeChambeau birdied six of his final nine holes for a one-shot win over Patrick Rodgers.

 

DeChambeau will enter this year's event as a strong contender to repeat as its champion as well.

 

With most of golf's big names playing the Scottish Open in preparation for next week's British Open at Carnoustie, DeChambeau is the highest-ranked golfer in the field. The 24-year-old is 22nd in this week's world ranking.