Adelaide’s LIV Connections Strengthen as Cam Smith Voiced Support for Greg Norman’s Course Vision

Cameron Smith is excited about the prospect of more chances to triumph on home turf following South Australia’s announcement of a three-year contract extension with LIV Golf.

On Sunday, it was revealed that the state will continue to be the exclusive host of LIV Golf in Australia until at least 2028, following another successful event.

Smith perceives this extension as evidence of the Saudi-backed tour’s position within the golfing arena, particularly as its merger with the PGA Tour encounters ongoing challenges.

The Queenslander, however, did not showcase his best form as his team’s title defence, Ripper GC, fell short.

After a promising start, being five-under following his first seven holes in the third round, his hopes of an unlikely comeback dwindled due to a series of bogeys.

He finished 30th at one under, trailing the eventual champion Joaquin Niemann by twelve shots.

The Australian Ripper GC team placed ninth among thirteen teams, finishing 21 strokes behind the top-performing Fireballs GC.

Marc Leishman was the highest-placed Australian, ending three under and tied for 21st place, while Lucas Herbert (even) and Matt Jones (three-over) also struggled to make an impact.

The freshly signed agreement with LIV Golf also includes an option for South Australia to host the tournament until 2031, contingent on the redevelopment of a golf course situated closer to the centre of the city in North Adelaide.

This would mark the first-ever purpose-built LIV course, which is to be designed by former CEO Greg Norman.

For Smith, the prospect of an additional six opportunities to secure victory at the LIV Adelaide event has alleviated some of the disappointment from this year’s performance.

“This vision has been in the works for quite some time across various locations,” he commented.

“Being the first is quite special and highlights the support we enjoy here. I really appreciate Greg’s golf course designs.

“Having another six years ahead is absolutely fantastic. The event is thriving, and it’s thrilling to return each year. It keeps improving, and I’m looking forward to an even better experience next year.”

Chilean golfer Niemann claimed victory with a brilliant final round, securing a two-stroke win.