As is so often the case, last week’s Australian Open delivered multiple storylines and more than a few talking points. From Cam Smith’s controversial pre-event course setup comments to inclement weather and the multi-championship field, there were numerous avenues for a post-tournament analysis to venture emanating from Kingston Heath and Victoria golf clubs.
Jiyai Shin has won a second Women’s Australian Open title 11 years after her first with a two-shot triumph over defending champion Ash Buhai on Sunday at Kingston Heath.
Splitting up the men and women from a mixed Australian Open after three years would not be easy nor a good move financially, Golf Australia chief executive James Sutherland said Sunday in Melbourne.
Cameron Smith has blasted a soft and slow course setup across Kingston Heath and Victoria golf clubs as “disappointing,” and added the idea heavy rain was responsible was “bulls–t.”
Overall he gives himself a B as a grade for his on-course performances this year, although Min Woo Lee’s end-of-year report card still has room for an upgrade at this Australian Open.
Major-championship winner Cameron Smith will complete a four-week stretch of Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia tournaments by confirming his place in the field at the 2024 Australian Open.
The winner of two tournaments on the LPGA Tour this year, the West Australian rose to a career-high of No.5 on the world ranking and will start as one of the favourites to win the Patricia Bridges Bowl.
Set to be played from November 28 to December 1, the Australian Open will again feature its unique combined format with players in the men’s, women’s and all abilities tournaments over two courses, showcasing the best of Australian golf.
History is being made this week on the iconic Melbourne Sandbelt, as the 10th oldest golf tournament in the world will become the first to stage a men’s and women’s championships simultaneously on the same courses.
Australian Golf Digest
