Cameron Smith makes significant announcement ahead of 2026 LIV Golf season

Ripper GC have confirmed the signing of rising Australian star Elvis Smylie, securing one of the country’s most exciting young talents as the LIV Golf League team continues its commitment to championing Australian golf on the global stage.

The 23-year-old joins an established Ripper GC lineup featuring captain Cameron Smith, Marc Leishman and Lucas Herbert, adding next-generation firepower to a team built on major-winning pedigree, international experience and national pride.

Smylie arrives following a breakout 2024–25 season, highlighted by a career-defining victory at the Australian PGA Championship at Royal Queensland Golf Club. 

The Queenslander had earlier claimed his maiden professional title at the Bowra & O’Dea Nexus Advisers WA Open, underlining his rapid rise among Australia’s emerging elite.

Smylie replaces Matt Jones on the team. 

Ripper GC captain Smith believes Smylie is a future superstar of his nation. 

“Signing Elvis is a huge moment, not just for Ripper GC, but for Australian golf,” said Smith. 

“He represents the next wave of talent coming through at a time when the sport is absolutely booming back home. He’s already shown he can win under pressure and compete on big stages.”

For Smylie, the move to LIV Golf is a full-circle moment. 

A former recipient of the Cam Smith Scholarship, he now joins the team led by his long-time mentor. 

The son of former Australian tennis doubles star Liz Smylie, he brings elite sporting pedigree alongside his growing reputation as a fearless competitor.

“Growing up in Australia, you understand what golf means back home – the history, the mateship, and the pride that comes with representing your country,” Smylie said. 

“To join Ripper GC, led by Cam, at this stage of my career means a lot. I’m proud to be part of something that reflects where Australian golf has been, and where it’s going.”

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Smylie’s signing comes during a historic period for the sport nationally, with more than four million Australians playing golf over the past year – the strongest growth in participation in more than three decades.

Junior numbers and club memberships continue to surge, reinforcing the depth of Australia’s talent pipeline.

Ripper GC general manager Nick Adams said Smylie’s arrival aligns perfectly with the team’s long-term vision.

“Cam’s vision has always been to provide a pathway for young Australian golfers to excel on the global stage,” Adams said. “Elvis represents the best of the current young crop, and we believe his ability gives us the best chance of success as a team in 2026.”

Australian fans will get their first look at the new-look Ripper GC at LIV Golf Adelaide, which returns to The Grange Golf Club from February 12–15, 2026. 

The event has become one of the most celebrated stops on the LIV Golf calendar, attracting more than 260,000 fans since 2023 and contributing over $217 million to South Australia’s economy.

Smylie’s signing was confirmed the same day Thomas Detry joined Dustin Johnson’s 4Aces GC, underscoring a busy day of player movement across the league.