Cameron Smith has dropped the biggest hint yet that he's agreed a deal to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour.
Smith, 28, produced a stunning final round to win The Open Championship at St Andrews in July, finally ending his wait for a maiden major championship. But in the immediate aftermath of his win, he refused to rule out a move to the rebel series.
And in the build-up to this week's FedEx Cup Playoffs in Memphis, Australian compatriot Cameron Percy told reporters Smith had already agreed to sign for Greg Norman. The Queenslander reacted aggressively to the claims, saying: "You'll hear news from me, not Cameron Percy."
However, it continues to be widely reported that Smith has already finalised his defection, and signed a contract worth around £82 million. And after shooting a three under par opening round at the St Jude Championship, he implied a move was imminent.
"It's [the media's] job, mate. That's what they're there to do. They're there to sell stories," he told Sky Sports, when asked about the rumours over his future. "I'm ready to cop some heat.
"I understand that's what I've said but I'm here to win the FedEx Cup Playoffs, that's my number one goal. Whatever happens after that will come from me."
The 'heat' Smith spoke about appeared evident after he was partnered with masters champion Scottie Scheffler during his first round at TPC Southwind. On one green the American, a vociferous critic of the LIV Golf defectors, appeared to make a point of deliberately walking across Smith's line.
Scheffler appeared unfazed by inconveniencing his playing partner, whilst Smith responded with a look of disgust. It was the latter who left the 18th in better shape though, with Scheffler only able to fire a one over par 71.
Smith joining LIV Golf would be viewed as a seismic moment in the battle between the rebel tour and the PGA. Despite some high profile names being captured by Norman thus far, the world No 2 would be considered the first player to switch allegiance with his best years still ahead of him.
