Australian contender shuts out the noise
CAMERON Smith quickly worked in the extra variable of being thrust into one of the biggest frenzies in world sport as he plots a course to his first major in Oklahoma this week.
The Aussie world No.4 has been given an opening round tee time in the group behind Tiger Woods, who, as he did on his Masters return in April, is attracting fans in swarms at the PGA Championship.
Not one to get flustered by much, Smith, who has played just once since an unfriendly final round at Augusta that included hitting his ball in the water on the 12th hole to cruel his shot at winning the green jacket, is ready to rumble again at the year’s second major.
But his preparations have required factoring in all you need to absorb and endure when you get caught up in the Woods circus.
“I think there can be a lot of external noise, especially with crowds, and just a lot more moving parts I guess,” Smith said at Southern Hills Country Club.
“So yeah, just another thing to really think about. Just probably make sure, you know, spend a little bit more time worrying about what’s happening outside to make sure when you’re inside that shot, everything’s perfect.”
One of eight Australians in the field, Smith is on the third line of betting, having finished third at the Masters and on the back of his victory at The Players Championship in March, his second win in 2022.
He played a practice round with fellow Aussies Adam Scott and Matt Jones on Tuesday in Tulsa, trying to avoid any extra attention that comes with being a contender and a top-10 player.
Smith said he had even “set the clubs down” for more than a week and dipped into some preparation that didn’t include hitting balls, even seeing his sports psychologist to further enhance his chances of success.
“So it was good to set the clubs down for probably 10 days and then I got back into it working hard. Had my trainer and psychologist over last week and did a lot of good work at home,” he said.
“I just try and focus on what I can do best to prepare myself to win golf tournaments. That’s what I’m out here to do.
“I think getting caught up in all that (outside noise) sometimes can be a bit of a hindrance.
“Yeah, just try and do my own thing and hopefully it all works out.”
Smith, who now has three top-five finishes at the Masters, said he was undaunted by his final round at Augusta when he drew to within one shot of winner Scott Scheffler early, only to make a triplebogey six on the 12th hole to fall out of contention.
“I wouldn’t say I regret anything,” he said.
“Frustrated, yes, for a little bit, but definitely no regrets.”