Smith steps up to big league
QUEENSLANDER Cameron Smith is confident he can repay a big compliment after being placed in a marquee group with history-chasing Rory McIlroy at the US Masters.
Smith will play the first two rounds alongside world No.3 McIlroy, as the Northern Irishman attempts to complete a career grand slam, as well as American star Rickie Fowler, the 2018 runner-up.
The grouping is a significant show of faith by Augusta National in world No.28 Smith’s game and ability to handle golf’s biggest stage.
The honour was not lost on the 25-year-old Queenslander, who made a strong impression when fifth in 2018 after a closing 66.
“It’s a nice feeling to know you’ve been placed in a group with two big names like that,” said Smith, who has won the past two Australian PGA titles on the Gold Coast.
“I feel it is a bonus of the way I’ve played the last couple years; I’ve climbed up the world rankings and finished fifth at Augusta last year.”
Smith feels he will thrive in the spotlight.
“I like the big stage at the majors,” he said. “I feel it brings out my best golf when there is a bit of pressure.”
McIlroy needs to win Augusta’s green jacket to become just the sixth golfer in history to claim all four major championships.