V Golf Miami saw a sudden twist after its first round. The 3-time LIV champion, Cam Smith, abruptly withdrew soon after the Friday round at Trump National Doral, citing “illness.” Reports that followed confirmed him to be suffering from a case of food poisoning. During the round, Smith had carded a 3-over 75 with four birdies, five bogeys, and a double bogey, which already indicated that he was not at his best!

LIV announced that Ben Campbell of New Zealand would take his spot on the Ripper GC in Miami for the week. And even though this sorted out the situation for his team, another problem may just be in the works for Smith, thanks to the fast-approaching Masters.

With just 2 days to go before the year’s first major starts, Smith’s sickness now raises the big question as to whether he’ll be fit enough to play at Augusta!

Will Cam Smith be able to compete at the Masters next week?

Smith’s unexpected illness and his consequent absence from LIV Golf Miami—the defectors’ final stop ahead of Augusta—now have many wondering whether he will be able to recuperate in time to compete in the Masters. The average recovery period for food poisoning is around 4 to 5 days; however, severe cases could take up to two weeks for a complete recovery. This means that even if the Australian is feeling better in time for the first round next week on Thursday, there is unfortunately no assurance of him being at his 100 percent.

The LIV star qualified for the invitational major thanks to his victory at the 150th Open Championship in 2022, which provides the winner with berths into the remaining majors for the next 5 years. However, in light of recent events, he could possibly miss his chance to take home the Green Jacket. And following his recent hot streak, that is certainly unfortunate!

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In his four LIV events so far, Smith has finished twice in the top ten, including a third-place finish at LIV Golf Hong Kong just last month. Moreover, the golfer has quite a good record at Augusta, having played there six times and placing in the top 10 four times. Additionally, if the Aussie star does go on to skip the Masters, LIV too will suffer a huge blow.

What could the Masters mean for the LIV Golf Circuit?

Cam Smith, alongside the likes of Jon Rahm, Dustin Johnson, and Joaquin Niemann, was one of 13 players on LIV’s roster who received invites to Augusta National. That’s 13 out of 88! Hence, clearly, the odds of one from the Saudi-backed side grabbing a win are already bleak, and seeing their field reduced to 12 would only reduce those chances. Moreover, if Smith drops out, LIV Golf’s plan to harmonize with the PGA Tour’s hegemony will also undoubtedly take a hit.

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The Masters presents LIV Golf with a fantastic opportunity to declare that its game revolution is about more than simply big salaries and high-profile hires; it’s about creating a competitive atmosphere where the best players in the world can flourish and improve the game. Furthermore, a LIV golfer winning at Augusta National—a venue renowned for excellence and tradition—would bring the Saudi side unparalleled visibility and possibly even the chance to positively influence public and media opinions on its circuit.

One of the 13 winning would also serve as evidence of the league’s competitive nature and perhaps even cause more players from other Tours to try and find a spot in LIV’s ranks! The traction they receive could be unparalleled. However, that’s all riding on a defector winning or some stunning performances from them. And whether they’ll be able to do so, only time will tell!

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