Despite the PGA Tour’s recent offer to welcome back former players, Australian golfer Cameron Smith has confirmed his commitment to LIV Golf. Speaking at LIV Golf’s media week in Florida, Smith made it clear that he would not be joining Brooks Koepka in returning to the PGA Tour.
“I’m going to stay, mate,” Smith stated confidently. “I’ve made a decision to come here and I’m standing by it. I’m really excited for 2026. I think our team is going to have one of the best years yet and I can’t wait to see what we’re going to do on the golf course.”
The announcement comes as the PGA Tour introduced its ‘Returning Members Program’, extending an olive branch to Smith, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm. These players, recognized for their major wins and Players Championship titles, were given until February 2 to apply for reinstatement. However, for Smith, the decision was straightforward.
The LIV Golf Commitment
Smith’s decision to remain with LIV Golf underscores his contentment with his current career trajectory and personal life. “I’ve made my bed and I’m going to sleep in it,” he remarked. “I feel like I’m in a really good place in my career and my life, family life, and I don’t need to change it.”
This development follows reports from Spain suggesting that Rahm also intends to stay with LIV, while DeChambeau has been more playful, engaging his social media followers with the dilemma. In an interview with Today’s Golfer, DeChambeau hinted at the ongoing negotiations, stating, “I’ve got a contract this year and that’s just going to be an ever-evolving conversation. Hopefully, I’m back next year. I’m excited for the potential of LIV.”
Impact of Koepka’s Departure
The golf world was taken by surprise with Koepka’s return to the PGA Tour, a move Smith described as a significant loss for LIV. “Is it a shame to have him go? Absolutely, he’s a star of the game,” Smith commented. “I think starting 2026 we’re still going to have the best field that LIV’s ever had, so on one side I’m sad to see him go. He’s a good friend and yeah, it’s not good, and on the other side I’m really looking forward to what we’re doing out here.”
Smith’s steadfastness in his decision is echoed by his Ripper GC teammates, Marc Leishman and Lucas Herbert, who expressed confidence in the future of their team and the LIV Golf league. Leishman noted the positive atmosphere within LIV Golf, saying, “No matter what you hear about LIV Golf, it’s a great place to play. It’s really competitive. We have a lot of fun.”
Future Challenges and Opportunities
While Smith’s commitment to LIV Golf is clear, his future remains uncertain due to the league’s ongoing struggle to secure Official World Golf Rankings (OWGR) points. Currently ranked 207, Smith’s position has been affected by missing the cut in all four majors last year, a stark contrast to his previous second-place world ranking before joining LIV.
“Hopefully, 72 holes helps us get world ranking points,” Herbert said. “It’s been a tricky battle over the last few years. We’ve been in and we’ve been out, and we’re back in with wanting the points.”
The move to four-round, 72-hole tournaments is seen as a strategic step to align with traditional golf standards and earn OWGR points, which are crucial for major tournament qualifications and Olympic appearances.
As LIV Golf continues to navigate these challenges, Smith’s decision to stay with the league highlights his belief in its potential and his commitment to its future. The coming years will be pivotal for both Smith and LIV Golf as they strive to solidify their place in the professional golf landscape.
