Cameron Smith has opened up about his move to LIV Golf, offering a candid assessment after enduring a challenging stretch since joining the Saudi-backed breakaway league.
The Australian, who famously clinched the 150th Open Championship at St Andrews in 2022, shocked the golfing world when he jumped ship to LIV Golf later that year. At the time, Smith was riding a wave of momentum, having established himself as one of the most formidable players on the PGA Tour. However, things haven’t gone entirely according to plan since making the switch.
Speaking recently about the impact of the move, Smith admitted the transition has come with unexpected challenges.
“I thought it would be a bit easier,” Smith said. “The format’s different, the rhythm is different, and the motivation, if I’m being honest, has been hard to maintain at times.”
LIV Golf, with its 54-hole, no-cut format and team structure, has drawn criticism and skepticism from traditionalists. For Smith, who was used to grinding it out over four rounds and feeding off the intensity of PGA Tour competition, the change has clearly disrupted his competitive routine.
The 30-year-old has also struggled with form, failing to contend regularly and slipping in the global conversation around golf’s elite. Without world ranking points being awarded for LIV events, his standing in the Official World Golf Ranking has dropped considerably, limiting his qualification for major championships.
“It’s been frustrating, for sure,” Smith admitted. “I miss the feeling of being in the hunt on a Sunday, with everything on the line. That’s what we play for.”
Despite his difficulties, Smith stopped short of expressing regret, noting that his decision wasn’t purely about the money, as critics often suggest.
“There were a lot of factors – the schedule, the chance to be part of something new, and yes, the financial security,” he explained. “But I didn’t take it lightly. I thought I could bring my best golf with me. That part hasn’t worked out yet.”
Still, Smith remains optimistic about turning things around. He’s hopeful that LIV Golf can continue evolving, especially as discussions about potential pathways into the majors continue.
“We need to figure out the rankings, we need more opportunities to play against the best, and I know the league is working on it,” he said. “I still believe in the project, but I’ve got to do my part too. I need to play better.”
Smith’s honesty is a rare and refreshing admission in a climate where many LIV golfers have been tight-lipped or overly positive about the move. His words echo the growing sentiment among some in the league that LIV Golf still has a long way to go before it can fully compete with the PGA Tour and major championships in terms of competitive stature.
For now, the Aussie is focusing on rebuilding his game and finding his form once again. And if his past performances are anything to go by, writing off Cam Smith would be a mistake.
