LIV Golf has confirmed the signing of Australian rising star Elvis Smylie, who will join Cameron Smith’s Ripper GC squad for the 2026 season. This move is seen as a strategic response to the PGA Tour’s recent welcoming back of LIV exile Brooks Koepka. In addition to Smylie, the rebel league announced the recruitment of Byeong Hun An and the re-signing of foundation superstar Dustin Johnson.
Smylie’s signing marks a significant milestone following a breakout 18 months for the 23-year-old, highlighted by his victory at the 2024 Australian PGA Championship, where he outperformed runner-up Cameron Smith. Reflecting on his new journey, Smylie expressed his excitement, stating, “Growing up in Australia, you understand what golf means back home – the history, the mateship, and the pride that comes with representing your country.”
He added, “To join Ripper GC, led by my long-term mentor, Cam Smith, at a time when Australian golf is growing the way it is means a lot to me. I’m proud to be part of something that embodies where the game has been, and where it’s going next.”
A New Era for Australian Golf
Smylie joins an Australian team that includes captain Smith, Marc Leishman, and Lucas Herbert. Smith, in a statement, emphasized the importance of Smylie’s addition, “Signing Elvis is a huge moment, not just for Ripper GC, but for Australian golf. He represents the next wave of Australian talent coming through at a time when the sport is absolutely booming back home.”
Smith further praised Smylie’s capabilities, noting, “Elvis has already shown he can win under pressure, compete against world-class fields, and perform on big stages.” Smylie is set to showcase his talent at LIV Golf Adelaide, hosted by The Grange Golf Club from February 12-15 this year.
Ripper GC General Manager Nick Adams highlighted the strategic vision behind Smylie’s signing, “Cam’s vision has always been to provide a pathway for young Australian golfers to excel on the global stage. Elvis represents the best of all of the young crop of players currently in Australia, and we believe that his playing ability gives us the best chance of success in 2026 as a team.”
LIV Golf’s Broader Strategy
Elsewhere, two-time major champion Dustin Johnson, the 4Aces GC captain, has committed his future to the Saudi-backed circuit by signing a multi-year extension with LIV Golf. Meanwhile, Byeong Hun An will lead the Korean Golf Club alongside Danny Lee, Younghan Song, and Minkyu Kim.
These moves come as multiple LIV Golf stars were presented with an ultimatum by the PGA Tour following Brooks Koepka’s official return. Notably, Smith, two-time US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau, and former world No. 1 Jon Rahm have been given until February 2 to apply for reinstatement to the PGA Tour under the newly introduced ‘Returning Member Program’.
The ‘Returning Member Program’ is only an option for players who have won a major championship or the Players Championship since the men’s game was split in two in 2022, making Smith eligible due to his triumphs at TPC Sawgrass and St Andrews that year.
Smith’s Firm Stance
Despite the opportunity, Smith has chosen to remain with LIV Golf, rejecting the PGA Tour’s offer. He told reporters in Florida, “I’m going to stay, mate. I’ve made a decision to come here and I’m standing by it.”
This decision underscores a broader commitment to LIV Golf’s vision and a belief in its potential to reshape the golfing landscape. As the rivalry between LIV Golf and the PGA Tour continues to evolve, the strategic moves by LIV Golf signal a robust approach to securing top talent and enhancing its global presence.
As the 2026 season approaches, the golfing world will be watching closely to see how these developments impact the dynamics between the two tours and the future of professional golf.
