The prestigious Masters Tournament will be played at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club in a few weeks’ time. While the tension remains high before the traditional inaugural major championship of the season, the flares are up in the air this year. The 2023 Masters will be the first time when the LIV Golf defectors participate alongside the PGA Tour players, which promises to be an exciting contest. But among them, will Aussie golfer, Cameron Smith, play this year at Augusta?
Will Cameron Smith play at the Masters?
The 29-year-old had a breakthrough season last year on the PGA Tour. He won a host of titles, including the 2022 Players Championship. But the Australian’s biggest achievement was his victory at the Open Championship, which secured his first major championship.
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Thanks to his inaugural major victory, Smith earned the ticket to this year’s Masters Tournament. But his move to the LIV Golf Series put his participation in doubt.
The PGA Tour suspended Smith and other LIV rebels’ memberships after their switches. It was left to the boards of the major championships to decide on the fate of LIV defectors, which eventually was a happy one for the latter. While Masters chairman, Fred Ridley, regretted the actions of the rebel league, he allowed the original rule criterion to stand.
Overall, at least 15 players from the LIV Golf Series will be a part of the 2023 Masters Tournament. The event commences on April 6.
Does Smith have a shot at winning the Masters Tournament?
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The defending Open Championship winner hasn’t exhibited his form from last year since moving to the LIV Golf Series. However, he has a pretty decent record at the tournament. Smith has four top-10 finishes in the last five Masters editions, including ties for second in 2020 and third last year.
But the field at the tournament is set to be the strongest ever this season. Some of the best golfers on the planet will vie for the Green Jacket with the highest emphasis considering the hostility around the participation of LIV players.
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If the frenzy around the PGA Tour events is anything to go by, the Masters will be one of the most keenly watched events on the calendar. Who will reign supreme at the Augusta National next month? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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