smh.com.au
Cam Smith's Major Slump: Tee-to-Green Game, Not LIV, Blamed
Australian golfer Cam Smith, who joined LIV Golf in 2022 after winning The Open, has missed the cut in all four major tournaments in 2025, a slump attributed by analyst Mike Clayton to a decline in his tee-to-green game rather than a lack of motivation.
- What is the primary reason for Cam Smith's recent decline in performance at major golf tournaments?
- Cam Smith, ranked No. 2 in the world in 2022, has missed the cut in all four major tournaments in 2025, extending his major missed cut streak to five. He attributes this slump to a mental issue rather than technical flaws, citing a need to commit to his swings.
- How does Cam Smith's move to LIV Golf, and the associated financial compensation, relate to his current slump?
- Smith's decline coincides with his 2022 move to the LIV Golf league for a reported \$140 million. While some speculate that the LIV contract or the shorter tournament format affected his motivation or competitive edge, analyst Mike Clayton points to a deterioration in Smith's tee-to-green game as the primary cause, citing the importance of consistent ball-striking for sustained success in golf.
- What are the potential long-term implications of Smith's performance slump for his career trajectory and future in professional golf?
- Smith's future success hinges on regaining his tee-to-green consistency. While financial security and family time are factors, his continued participation in LIV and his expressed desire to compete suggest a commitment to a comeback. His upcoming participation in the Australian Open indicates an intention to continue playing at a high level and win major tournaments.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames Cam Smith's struggles in a way that emphasizes the potential negative impacts of his LIV Golf contract. The headline, while not explicitly negative, sets a tone of questioning his decline. The repeated mention of the significant financial gain and its juxtaposition with his current performance subtly suggests a causal link, without definitively proving one. The inclusion of Mike Clayton's opinions, while presented as balanced, leans towards questioning Smith's commitment and attributes the struggles to a decline in his tee-to-green game, indirectly linking this to LIV.
Language Bias
The article uses language that is generally neutral but subtly loaded. Phrases like "life-changing LIV contract," "astronomical dollars," and "eye-watering sum" carry a negative connotation, even though the article also presents counterarguments. While descriptive, the words chosen paint a picture of LIV as a source of potential distraction and disruption, rather than a simple career choice. Neutral alternatives for the LIV contract could be "substantial contract" or "lucrative deal" to avoid negative framing.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Cam Smith's slump and potential reasons, but it omits discussion of other golfers experiencing similar performance dips. While it mentions other players, it doesn't analyze whether their struggles are also linked to factors like changes in tour or financial situations. This omission could leave the reader with a skewed impression that LIV involvement is uniquely problematic.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a false dichotomy by implying that Cam Smith's slump is either due to LIV Golf or a lack of motivation caused by wealth. It overlooks other potential contributing factors, such as injuries, changes in swing mechanics, or mental health issues. This simplification prevents a comprehensive understanding of the complex factors affecting athletic performance.