The Uncertain Future of Cameron Smith
Cameron Smith, one of Australia’s most promising golfers, finds himself at a critical juncture in his career. After winning the 2022 British Open at St Andrews, he had the world at his feet. However, instead of cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greats, Smith chose to join LIV Golf for a lucrative payday.
This decision marked the beginning of a downward spiral that has seen him drop from world No.2 to No.222. While LIV was granted ranking status this year, it offers limited opportunities. To remain within the top 200, Smith will need consistent top-five finishes for the rest of the season — assuming the league continues to operate.
Smith’s victory at the 2022 Open grants him eligibility to play in majors until he is 60, but his five-year exemption expires at the end of 2027. This means he will have just seven more years before he must qualify for major tournaments. Given his recent struggles, including missing the cut in each of the last six majors, this seems increasingly unlikely.
The Offer He Turned Down
When Brooks Koepka decided to return to the PGA Tour, Smith was offered a similar opportunity. The PGA Tour introduced the ‘Returning Member Program’, which allowed players who won majors or The Players Championship between 2022 and 2025 to rejoin. Smith, along with Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, was eligible.
However, Smith gave a one-word response when asked if he would consider the offer: “no.” He stood by his decision to join LIV, despite the potential consequences.
The PGA Tour made it clear that the offer was not permanent. It was a one-time deal, and those who accepted it faced significant financial and competitive hurdles. Koepka, for example, paid $7.45 million to charity and lost access to FedEx Cup bonuses for five years.
Patrick Reed also returned to the PGA Tour, but only after waiting 12 months since his last LIV event. Smith, on the other hand, would have to wait at least 12 months after his final LIV appearance before being eligible to return — and even then, it’s uncertain whether the PGA Tour would allow him back.
The Harsh Reality Smith Could Face
If the PGA Tour does not make an exception for Smith, he may be forced to start from the bottom again. This could mean competing on lower-tier professional tours, grinding for rankings points, and working his way up through the ranks.
Paul McGinley, a former Ryder Cup captain, believes that players like Smith must prove their loyalty to the PGA Tour. He argues that those who left for LIV took a significant risk and benefited financially. Now, the Tour may push back against them, claiming that their spots have been filled.
Smith may find himself in a difficult position, needing to rebuild his career from scratch. However, his previous experience climbing through the ranks could give him an advantage. If he made smart financial decisions during his time with LIV, he may still have the resources to support himself while working his way back up.
A Difficult Path Ahead
Smith has declared that he is committed to his decision, but the current state of LIV Golf casts doubt on his future. Reports suggest that the league is facing financial difficulties, with the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund possibly withdrawing its support. While LIV CEO Scott O’Neil has denied these claims, uncertainty remains.
If LIV collapses, Smith’s path back to the top of world golf will be even more challenging. He may face harsher sanctions from the PGA Tour, and without a strong performance record, it could take years to regain his place among the elite.
For now, Smith appears to be stuck between two worlds — one that once promised wealth and fame, and another that may no longer welcome him. As the situation unfolds, the future of his career remains uncertain.
