As one in every of LIV Golf’s poster boys, Cameron Smith used to be no longer positive what sort of reception he would obtain when he arrived at Augusta National on Monday for his first Masters apply consultation – whether or not it will be the chilly shoulder or heat embody.
While the feud between the PGA Tour and the riot Saudi-backed LIV circuit has evolved right into a {golfing} Cold War, love used to be within the air as Smith seemed at the vary greeted with smiles, hugs and handshakes.
“I didn’t want to expect too much but at the same time, I kind of wanted that, not only for myself but just for the game of golf,” mentioned Smith. “I spent an hour out there and saw lots of familiar faces, lots of smiles and hugs.
“I don’t think there’s any kind of hatred going on between the players. We are all happy where we are, and I’m just as happy for the guys winning out on the PGA Tour as I am for the LIV golfers.”
When Smith won the Open last year he was a member of the PGA Tour but this week tees it up at the Masters as one of LIV Golf’s most high-profile signings, jumping to the rebel circuit for a reported $100m.
Some have delighted in bashing the PGA Tour on their way out, but Smith has been more diplomatic.
Banned by the PGA Tour after joining LIV, Smith has more reason than most to harbor some bitterness, being denied the opportunity to defend his Players Championship crown.
But it says something about the 29-year-old Australian’s demeanor that he is the only one of the 18 LIV Golf members in the field scheduled to appear in the Masters interview room ahead of Thursday’s opening round.
“I’ve made my bed and I’m happy, very, very happy where I am,” he said. “I’m happy to sleep in the bed I’m in.”
Calling Augusta National his “happy place” Smith has contested the Masters six times and recorded three top five finishes, including a tie for third last year.
If Smith or another LIV member were to walk away wearing the Green Jacket on Sunday it would be a major marketing coup for the series as it fights to establish credibility.
“I think it’s just important for LIV guys to be up there because I think we need to be up there,” mentioned Smith. “I believe there may be numerous chatter about those guys do not play actual golfing; those guys do not play actual golfing classes.
“For sure, I’ll be the first one to say, the fields aren’t as strong. I’m the first one to say that. But we’ve still got a lot of guys up there that can play some really serious golf. I think we just need a good, strong finish.”