Cam Smith felt Open win was ‘overshadowed’ by LIV fears

LIV rebel Cam Smith admits he was frustrated immediately after winning the 150th Open Championship in St Andrews last year.

Straight after hoisting the Claret Jug on the Old Course, the Australian was questioned about jumping ship to the breakaway tour.

Ahead of LIV Golf’s return to London, a year after the Saudi-backed tour’s inaugural event, the 29-year-old said his winning moment was ‘overshadowed’.

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Speaking at the Centurion Club, Smith said: “Yeah, it was definitely, I guess, a frustrating media conference after the Open.

“I think, perhaps a little bit overshadowed that, I’d probably just won the biggest tournament that I’ll ever play in, and someone was asking that.”

The Rippers GC team captain also claimed that it has been tough to deal with the criticism that followed, although remains in no doubt that he made the right decision.

He said: “I suppose it was a little bit harder from then onwards, definitely whilst making the decision, just some nasty stuff, I suppose, said by the keyboard warriors.

“I knew it was going to be tough, but I feel since I made the decision, I made the right one.”

The fears of the media presence following Smith’s first major success were confirmed when he eventually linked up with fellow Australian Greg Norman.

Despite exemption problems facing many LIV golfers since last season’s final major, Smith has featured in all three championships this year.

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Before defending his title at Royal Liverpool later this month, Smith batted away claims that LIV Golf is on its way out, adding he would be delighted to repeat this year’s schedule.

“I think team golf is here to stay, and if you asked every one of us out here, I think everyone has such a good time and everyone enjoys what they’re doing out here, they love the competition.

“It’s good to see. It’s unique. I don’t think it’s going anywhere.”

John Turnbull A graduate of the University of Stirling, John joined the bunkered team in 2023 as a Content Producer, with a responsibility for covering all breaking news, tour news, grassroots content and much more besides. A keen golfer, he plays the majority of his golf at Falkirk Golf Club. Top of his 'bucket list' is a round of Pebble Beach... ideally in the company of Gareth Bale.