Cameron Smith, one of the LIV Golf stars, expressed his dissatisfaction with the course conditions at the ISPS HANDA Australian Open, following a second-place finish at the Australian PGA Championship. The tournament, taking place at Kingston Heath and Victoria Golf Club, had slower conditions due to recent wet weather. Smith criticized organizers for using the rain as an excuse, stating that the courses were not prepared as they should be.
Despite starting strong with an opening round 65, Smith struggled on the back nine at Kingston Heath, shooting a 41 and finishing with an even-par 72. He mentioned that his group was warned about slow play and admitted to making poor choices mentally that led to bogeys. The challenging conditions, including strong winds, added to his difficulties on the course.
In the third round, Smith’s struggles continued as he made the turn at 38 and finished with a 76, dropping him to a tie for 49th place. Meanwhile, Lucas Herbert and Ryggs Johnston held the 54-hole lead at 14 under, with Joaquin Niemann in a five-way tie for third at 12 under after a impressive third-round performance.
Smith’s frustrations with the course conditions and his performance have been evident throughout the tournament. Despite his earlier success at the Australian PGA Championship, he has found it challenging to replicate that at the Australian Open. The demanding conditions and pressure of competition have contributed to his struggles on the course.
Moving forward, Smith will need to regroup and refocus in the final round of the tournament to improve his standing. With skilled competitors like Herbert, Johnston, and Niemann in contention, Smith will have to elevate his game to climb the leaderboard and potentially contend for the title. The final round will test his resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
As the ISPS HANDA Australian Open reaches its conclusion, the competition heats up among the top contenders vying for the trophy. Smith’s performance will be closely watched as he aims to overcome the challenges he has faced and finish strong in the tournament. The outcome of the final round will determine the victor and showcase the talent and skill of the players competing in this prestigious event.
