Cameron Smith, the celebrated Australian golfer, has voiced his absolute certainty that LIV Golf is a permanent fixture in the sporting landscape. The 32-year-old Queenslander boldly declared that the Saudi-backed golf league will continue to thrive and prosper for the next two decades, dismissing any concerns about its longevity.
Unwavering Confidence Amid PGA Tour Returns
Smith, who clinched the prestigious Open Championship in 2022, is set to compete in the upcoming LIV Adelaide tournament at The Grange, commencing on Thursday. He remains unfazed by the recent decision of five-time major champion Brooks Koepka to return to the PGA Tour. Koepka will soon be joined by fellow American golfer Patrick Reed in this move back to the traditional tour.
However, Smith is adamant that these departures will not diminish LIV Golf's prominence or cause it to fade into obscurity. In an interview with News Corp, he stated, 'I'm more confident of 20 years, absolutely. I feel like we are doing lots of good stuff...I think the players and league are doing a good job of growing world golf.'
Expanding Talent and Positive Outlook
The league has bolstered its roster by securing promising young talents, including Australian golfer Elvis Smylie, who made a stunning debut victory in Riyadh, and leading US college golfer Michael La Sasso. Smith elaborated on his positive perspective, saying, '(For me) it's a great concept. I can't see it going away and I can't see it not working.'
Star-Studded Pro-Am Event in Adelaide
Adding to the excitement, a selection of Australian sporting legends participated in the LIV Golf Adelaide pro-am event on Wednesday. Notable figures such as cricketer Steve Smith and rugby league player Nathan Cleary took to the fairways, showcasing their golfing skills in a lighthearted competition.
Recently retired Australian Test cricketer Usman Khawaja shared his humorous take on the experience, telling LIV Golf, 'Honestly, I've learned to take golf not as seriously, but it's still funny. You step up to the tee, and you're like: 'Please don't shank it. Please don't shank it'. It's a bit like cricket when you go to bat, and you're like: 'Please don't get a duck. So, it's very similar.'
Rugby League Stars Embrace the Opportunity
Nathan Cleary, who temporarily stepped away from the Penrith Panthers' NRL pre-season preparations to fly to Adelaide for the event, expressed his gratitude. He remarked, 'Yeah, I think sometimes you can get caught in the grind of pre-season and playing footy...you're so rigid with everything, but you know, these are once in a lifetime sort of opportunities. So, being able to be a part of this is something I've really enjoyed and I am grateful for the opportunity.'
Fellow rugby league stars Ryan Papenhuyzen and James Tedesco also joined in the pro-am festivities. Papenhuyzen, the former Melbourne Storm fullback, had announced his retirement during the off-season, making his participation a notable moment in the event.
Overall, Cameron Smith's steadfast belief in LIV Golf's enduring success, combined with the league's strategic acquisitions and high-profile events, underscores a dynamic period in professional golf as it navigates new competitive landscapes.
