It’s news to no one that Cameron Smith has struggled to win a national open title, despite his impressive performances in other events. The Australian golfer has been plagued by a “national curse” that has seen him come close, but ultimately fall short, in his home country’s biggest tournaments. Smith’s frustration was evident when he recently expressed his disappointment with the course conditions at the Australian Open, stating that the layout was not exactly what he was used to and that it was a bit disappointing. Despite his concerns, Smith is committed to competing in the ISPS Handa Australian Open, which is being held at the Victoria Golf Club in Melbourne.

Smith’s decision to play in the event is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his desire to compete against the best players in the world. As R&A CEO Martin Slumbers noted, “There’s something special about watching the best players in the world play on the best golf courses in the world.”, per the latest episode of No Laying Up on YouTube. This sentiment is particularly relevant for Smith, who will be looking to break his national curse and claim his first Australian Open title.

As Smith looks to make history and win his first national open title, he will need to overcome his concerns about the course conditions and focus on his game. With his talent and dedication, he may finally be able to claim the title that has eluded him for so long. As Slumbers also noted, “People are really interested because they say oh goodness me I can remember who won the French Open in 1956.” This sense of history and tradition is what makes golf so unique, and Smith will be looking to write his own chapter on that history.

But that shouldn’t be hard for the golfer as he is notorious for being a crowd magnet.

Golf fans are a sucker for Cameron Smith

Cameron Smith’s return to Australia for the NSW Open generated immense excitement among golf fans. The former World No. 2 golfer’s patriotism and love for competing on home soil are well-known, and his presence at the tournament was expected to attract large crowds and raise the level of competition. It sure did! According to Graeme Phillipson, Chief Operating Officer at Golf NSW, Smith’s involvement undoubtedly elevates the event.

As Smith took to the course alongside Lucas Herbert and Declan O’Donovan, he was greeted by a sea of enthusiastic fans who followed him throughout his round. Smith’s impressive performance, which included a string of birdies, only added to the excitement, and he finished the day with a 64 to take the lead. Smith’s ability to connect with the crowd and create a lively atmosphere is a hallmark of his game, and he clearly thrives on the energy of the fans.