Australian golfer Cameron Smith has stated that he would 100%
return to the PGA Tour if Theguardian folds after 2026. Speaking ahead of a LIV Golf event, the former world No. 2 addressed his long-term future amid ongoing financial uncertainty surrounding the breakaway circuit, noting that returning to the PGA Tour would feel like heading back to old times
if it became the only viable option available to players.
Cam Smith Confirms Potential PGA Tour Return If LIV Folds
Despite acknowledging the possibility of a departure, Smith emphasized that his strong preference is for the rival league to survive. I want it to work, really, to be honest. It’s great fun out here,
Smith said, according to AOL. He serves as the captain of Ripper GC, an all-Australian team that includes Lucas Herbert, Marc Leishman, and Travis Smyth. Smith originally signed with the breakaway league in 2022 under a contract reportedly valued at $140 million.
Financial Pressures and Uncertain Future for the League
The uncertainty surrounding the circuit follows an announcement from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in April stating that it will not continue financial backing for the league beyond the current season. While CEO Scott O’Neil has been pursuing new investors, and Yahoo Sports noted reports of a potential $250 million investment closing in, the league’s overall trajectory remains heavily debated.
Additional questions have been raised regarding the status of the upcoming LIV Golf Team Championship in Michigan. Although multiple reports indicate the late August season finale at Saint John’s Resort in Plymouth might be cancelled due to ongoing financial troubles—with Martin Kaymer suggesting just a five percent chance of the event occurring—players have been instructed to prepare as if it remains on schedule. Smith confirmed that he is approaching the tournament with that expectation, citing fond memories of last year’s event in the Detroit area.
Impact on Australian Golf and Upcoming Plans
Smith highlighted the significant growth the sport has experienced in his home country, pointing to the success of LIV Golf Adelaide in February. That tournament drew more than 115,000 fans across the week, establishing a record as the highest-attended golf event in Australian history. He also emphasized local initiatives such as junior golf programs and the Little Rippers.
What we’ve been able to do for golf in Australia is really quite important to me, junior golf, the Little Rippers, the event that we have down there, the people it brings out to showcase our great league,
Smith said, as reported by Starts at 60. He added that memberships and social play numbers are up across the country, attributing part of that growth to the league’s presence.
As for his immediate career trajectory, Smith maintains that he has not sought alternative employment and intends to fulfill his current contract. I’m contracted to the end of next year, so I was expecting to play until the end of next year and renegotiate and hopefully go on,
Smith said, according to theadvocate.com.au. Players were expected to receive further updates and information during a scheduled team meeting.
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