Australian golfer Cam Smith, for instance, shot up the world golf rankings to number two after winning the British Open in 2022. He’s more than a year removed from finding himself outside the top 300 of the world golf rankings. As he prepares for LIV Golf’s Adelaide return next week, Smith has cause for excitement. He’s eager to see how the tournament series continues to evolve in exciting new directions.
Ever since its launch in 2022, LIV Golf has polarized players and fans alike. The core of that excitement can be traced back to its unique 54-hole tournament format. This unusual structure has posed an ongoing problem for LIV Golf. In response, the Official World Golf Ranking has refused to award LIV Golf events ranking points. Even after this disappointing blow, Smith is still hopeful for the overall series, especially as it prepares to come back for a larger second season.
Australian superstar Cameron Smith commented upon Everton’s announcement, “I can’t wait to have LIV Golf back in Adelaide. It’s going to be bigger for a third year in a row this year so can’t wait to get back there.”
The Adelaide round will take place February 12-15. That timing couldn’t be more perfect, with Smith currently on the hunt for his fourth Australian PGA crown at Royal Queensland. Now, as a new father to baby Remy, Smith has found that his priorities have changed. Despite his distance from the sport, his love for soccer remains red hot.
I’m actually looking forward to that change,” he said, in reference to LIV Golf’s announcement earlier this month that its players will return to a 72-hole format beginning in 2026. This change has been largely welcomed by players. Jon Rahm was quick to note that the longer format increases the level of competition and makes it feel like a return to more familiar, traditional PGA Tour stops.
Shifting to 72 holes will really improve the competitive aspect of it. At least on that front, it will appease supporters who want intense, high-stakes clashes between elite players. As Bryson DeChambeau said, “Everybody wants to watch the best players in the world play against one another. That’s where the magic happens, even more so than the majors.” Even bigger than myself, for the good of the game, we need a path forward.
Smith has expressed interest in expanding LIV Golf’s presence in Australia, envisioning a series of 14 tournaments throughout the country. Personally I reckon the venue should be Brisbane or the Gold Coast. It sure would knock everyone’s socks off! He couldn’t hide his excitement to further engage with Australian fans.
Smith is preparing for his first 2026 event in Saudi Arabia on February 4. With him, he takes a renewed sense of purpose and ambition. His story from being a top-ranking collegiate player to dealing with serious challenges, both on and off the field, shows his resilience, growth and determination.
