Cameron Smith recalls watching the LIV Golf inaugural event at Centurion club in London on YouTube last year.
Smith was the subject of many rumors and conversations about his leaving the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf. These rumors and discussions were true. His interest began when he started watching YouTube videos.
Smith stated, “It’s definitely different to watch and there’s a lot of stuff happening with the teams.” It’s an interesting sport to watch. “I love it.”
Smith, who is now a part of the circuit’s second season, will return to Centurion Club on Friday for the ninth tournament of 2023. Smith won the Chicago event after joining LIV Golf in the Tour Championship of last year.
Smith, who is ranked seventh on the world rankings, hasn’t yet won a tournament this year, but he admitted that he had a slow start. He placed T-9 at the PGA Championship, and then finished solo fourth at U.S. Open. He is a links-style golf fan and will be a favorite at the 151st Open Championship in Royal Liverpool, which takes place in two weeks.
Smith’s move from PGA Tour to LIV Golf is significant, especially after the announcement last month of the deal between the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund. This fund is the primary financial backer of LIV Golf. Smith is content with his current situation, despite rumors about LIV’s future.
“I think that we’re just going to have to wait and see what happens.” Smith stated that it’s still too early to make any assumptions, but I do believe I made the correct decision. “I think that the last few months is another tick on the box for us (LIV).”
LIV held eight events last year and has increased to 14. The reported signing bonuses and increased purses are not the only reasons why many pros left the Tour to join LIV. A lighter schedule was also a factor.
Smith is in agreement. He likes to have a more relaxed schedule.
Smith stated that he would take a career of 14 majors and four victories exactly as it was this year.
Smith was then asked about Nick Faldo’s comments made last week regarding whether LIV will survive and remain a part of golf ecosystem. He’s confident about the future of the LIV.
“I can’t imagine LIV Golf disappearing. I believe team golf will be around for a long time. If you ask all 48 of us, everyone here has a great time, everyone loves what they do out here and they love the competition. This team element brings together three or four players who may not have been close before.
It’s a good thing to see. It’s unique. “I don’t believe it will go anywhere.”
