Cameron Smith Is Not on the Same Boat as Dustin Johnson as Latest LIV Golf Rumors Flames Out

Matt Jones had a rough season, finishing 42nd in the individual standings, which left him in a tricky spot in the “Open Zone.” And, as you’d probably guess by now, it means Ripper GC could trade him if they wanted. With his future uncertain, rumors started to swirl about who might replace him on the team. Ripper GC signed Jones in 2023, and with his help, the team won the LIV Golf Team Championship. But it turns out Cameron Smith isn’t ready to part ways with his teammate just yet.

 In fact, Smith recently confirmed to Ben Parsons of Bunkered that Jones will be returning for 2025. While the official announcement hasn’t come through, it’s clear that Jones will be sticking with Ripper GC.

So, for Cameron Smith, it’s business as usual heading into the next LIV season. But the story’s different for the 4 Aces GC captain Dustin Johnson. As teams make their changes ahead of the new season, Johnson has decided to bring Thomas Pieters into his team. Pieters was previously with RangeGoats GC, but now he’ll join one of the most dominant teams in LIV Golf. The big question is: who’s he replacing? Well, Pat Perez’s contract with 4 Aces GC ends in January. So, Pieters will be stepping in for him.

Likewise, Pieters has some big shoes to fill with the expectations high for Johnson’s team.

Will Thomas Pieters be a fitting piece in the 4 Aces GC puzzle?

“The decision to trade Thomas Pieters was not easy. He has been a valuable member of RangeGoats GC since we launched two years ago,” said RangeGoats GM Randall Wells, clearly disappointed to part ways with one of the team’s best players.

Pieters finished 30th in the 2024 LIV Golf individual standings, but 4 Aces GC’s general manager, Chris Rosaasen, believes the acquisition will undoubtedly pay off next season.

“He’s a solid player with multiple wins in his career,” Rosaasen said. “His Ryder Cup record shows he excels in team golf. He’s going to be a great fit for the 4Aces brand both on and off the course.”

A big part of the trade came down to Johnson’s confidence in Pieters. “Happy to have Thomas on the team. He’s a great addition, great player and makes the team stronger. Really excited for next season,” Johnson said in a statement. (via Sports Illustrated)

Before joining LIV, Pieters racked up six wins on the DP World Tour and was the leading scorer for Europe in the 2016 Ryder Cup. With such a strong resume, it’s easy to see why 4 Aces GC would love to add him.

But now the question is, will Pieters be able to bring that same charm and impact to his new team? Only time will tell. What do you think of this fresh addition to 4 Aces GC? Let us know in the comments.