When Cam Smith made the decision to leave the PGA Tour and join LIV Golf in 2022, he knew it was a move that would change his career. The six-time PGA Tour winner, known for his incredible short game and stylish play, was offered a contract that he simply couldn’t turn down. Despite LIV Golf not publicly disclosing the exact terms of the deal, it’s widely believed that Smith’s contract was worth over $100 million.
What Led Cam Smith to Join LIV Golf?
Cam Smith’s decision to join LIV Golf came after a lot of consideration. He explained that it was a “business decision” and an offer he “couldn’t ignore.” Smith had been at the top of his game on the PGA Tour, winning the 2022 Open Championship, but LIV Golf offered him an opportunity that was too lucrative to pass up. For LIV, signing a golfer of Smith’s caliber was a massive coup, and they reportedly paid him a sum in the nine-figure range, which was a common amount for many of their early signings.
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Greg Norman, the CEO of LIV Golf, has been instrumental in bringing top talent like Smith to the new circuit. However, he didn’t push too hard for Smith to join the LIV team. As Norman revealed, “When I did the presentation to Cam, I sat back and let it go. I didn’t push at all.” In other words, it was all about letting Smith make his own decision, and when the time came, Smith was ready to make the jump.
Cam Smith’s Earnings Since Joining LIV Golf
Though LIV Golf has yet to officially confirm the figures, it’s estimated that Smith’s contract is north of $100 million. He’s already made significant earnings since joining, pocketing an additional $40.6 million through tournament winnings. Smith’s success on LIV Golf has been undeniable, with three wins under his belt in just his first two seasons. He took home victories in Chicago in 2022, then in Bedminster and London in 2023, showcasing his talent on the global stage.
How Does Cam Smith Compare to Other LIV Golfers?
While Smith’s contract is rumored to be in the $100 million range, it still falls short of the colossal deals signed by other LIV Golf stars. For instance, Jon Rahm’s contract is said to be an outlier, with figures much higher than the typical LIV contract. However, for most players, especially in the early stages of LIV’s existence, contracts valued at or around $100 million were the norm.
While Smith’s contract may not be the largest in LIV Golf, he’s certainly one of its most prominent stars. His skill and success on the course, combined with his global appeal, make him a valuable asset to the league.
Has Cam Smith Found Success with LIV Golf?
Smith’s move to LIV Golf has been successful in many ways. Since joining, he’s earned millions from the league’s lucrative payouts and achieved solid results in several tournaments. However, it’s not all been smooth sailing. Despite his early wins, Smith hit a bit of a slump, with over a year passing since his last victory.
Despite this, Greg Norman has consistently expressed confidence in Smith, praising his ability to bounce back. “He’s one of our most important players,” Norman has said. Smith, for his part, shares that confidence, acknowledging the trust and support he’s received from Norman.
How LIV Golf Benefits Cam Smith Beyond the Paycheck
While the financial rewards are certainly a major draw, there’s more to Smith’s decision than just money. One of the key benefits of LIV Golf for Smith is the reduced schedule. LIV’s events are fewer in number compared to the PGA Tour, giving players more time to spend with family and pursue other interests. For Smith, who has a strong connection to his home country of Australia, this has been particularly appealing. He’s been able to spend more time in Australia, enjoying life away from the constant grind of tour golf.
Additionally, Smith has used his position to influence younger Australian golfers. He invited local players Elvis Smylie and Jack Buchanan to join him for a practice round, offering mentorship and guidance to the next generation. It’s clear that Smith values the opportunities LIV Golf has given him, not just financially, but also in terms of personal and professional growth.
What Does Cam Smith Think About Greg Norman’s Role in LIV Golf?
Smith has been very vocal about his respect for Greg Norman, especially when it comes to Norman’s leadership of LIV Golf. Despite speculation that Norman might step down as CEO of LIV Golf, Smith expressed surprise at the rumors. “I was pretty surprised myself,” Smith said. “I think he has been under a lot of public scrutiny for a few years. They had said he was going to go and he hasn’t. I would not be surprised if it was all just a rumor.”
Smith’s loyalty to Norman speaks volumes about their relationship. Norman gave Smith the opportunity to join LIV Golf, which has allowed the Australian golfer to flourish in a new environment. Their mutual respect is evident, and it’s clear that Norman’s leadership has played a key role in Smith’s success on the circuit.
Cam Smith’s Impact on LIV Golf in Australia
As a proud Australian, Cam Smith has become an ambassador for LIV Golf on home soil. The Ripper GC captain has participated in several LIV events in Australia, including LIV Golf Adelaide, and is currently competing in the BMW Australian PGA Championship. In addition to his personal success on the course, Smith is helping to bring more attention to LIV Golf in Australia, where the league is working to establish a stronger presence.
Smith’s connection to his roots has also been on display as he competes in Australian events. He placed T3 at the Queensland PGA Championship and T2 at the NSW Open, continuing to show his prowess in his home country. His performances are helping to build LIV Golf’s reputation in Australia, adding another layer to his influence both on and off the course.
It was cool to see Cam Smith – playing a state open in a regional town – invite a couple young pros (Elvis Smylie and Jack Buchanan) for a NSW Open prac round and throw a few balls up to work out who was teaming with him and Lucas Herbert. Smith/Buchanan 1 up over Herbert/Smylie pic.twitter.com/cKu4exkL3j
— Evin Priest (@EvinPriest) November 12, 2024
Cam Smith’s Future with LIV Golf
At 31 years old, Cam Smith still has plenty of time to make an even greater impact in the world of golf. LIV Golf’s format and financial backing provide Smith with the opportunity to focus on his game while enjoying a more flexible schedule. With Greg Norman’s backing, and the success he’s already achieved, Smith seems primed for continued success in the LIV Golf era.
Smith’s future with LIV Golf looks bright, and as the tour continues to grow, he’ll likely remain one of its most influential players.
FAQ: Cam Smith’s LIV Golf Contract
1. How much did LIV Golf pay Cam Smith? LIV Golf’s deal with Cam Smith is rumored to be worth over $100 million, though the exact amount hasn’t been confirmed. This sum is part of a series of lucrative contracts offered by LIV Golf to its stars.
2. What has Cam Smith achieved in LIV Golf? Smith has won three times in LIV Golf events, with victories in Chicago (2022), Bedminster (2023), and London (2023).
3. Why did Cam Smith leave the PGA Tour for LIV Golf? Smith cited the business opportunity and the financial reward as the main reasons for his move. He also valued the reduced schedule that LIV Golf offers, allowing him to spend more time in Australia.
4. What is Cam Smith’s relationship with Greg Norman? Smith has expressed a strong bond with LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman, acknowledging Norman’s role in bringing him to LIV and expressing confidence in his leadership.
5. Is Cam Smith successful in Australian golf events? Yes, Smith has had great success in Australian golf tournaments, including placing T3 at the Queensland PGA Championship and T2 at the NSW Open.
