Australian golf star Cameron Smith has laughed off retirement talk, declaring: “I’ve got a while yet,” while insisting he’s been given “every assurance” LIV Golf isn’t going anywhere.
Fronting Aussie media ahead of LIV Golf Virginia this week, the Ripper GC captain dismissed the ‘R word’ had even entered his thinking, despite growing noise around the tour’s long-term future following confirmation Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund will wind back its financial support from 2027 onwards.
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It’s estimated Smith has banked close to $200 million during his time with the league but, predictably, the Queenslander has no plans to start easing into the quieter life just yet.
“I’m (only) 32, so I’ve got a while yet,” he said. “I haven’t been asked that question before. That’s good,” he added with a chuckle.
The question came after fellow LIV golfer Thomas Pieters told the Dan on Golf show this week that he would be “ready to retire” from professional golf if LIV Golf ceased operations.
It’s understood players were briefed not to delve into speculation following confirmation the PIF will wind back its billion-dollar spending beyond 2027, but Smith did offer a glimpse into what he’s been told behind the scenes.
“(We’ve been given) every assurance,” he said when asked about the league’s immediate future. “Absolutely. Yeah, that’s the goal. A hundred percent.”
That confidence extends to the league’s flagship event, LIV Golf Adelaide, with Smith adamant the event will return next year despite ongoing uncertainty.
“I think it’s going to be another great event… I’m sure it’ll be the same atmosphere. We’ll have the same crew out there and it’ll be really another good week.”
For now, Smith says outside noise hasn’t impacted his preparation. “I think since joining LIV, I’ve learnt to deal with speculation… so it hasn’t really changed what I’m doing day to day.”
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Instead, the 150th Open champion is focused on rediscovering his best form after a lean stretch by his own standards that’s coincided with him becoming a father for the first time. He revealed recent changes to his team and swing have sparked renewed confidence.
“I feel like I’m getting a lot of confidence back out on the golf course again, which I’ve struggled with the last year and a bit… I just feel a lot freer,” he said.
Despite the results, Smith insists the hunger hasn’t gone anywhere.
“The fire is really burning at the moment… I just want to be competitive. I know I can do it.”
And his goals remain unchanged.
“If I could win another major, I’d be the happiest bloke alive.”
