Cameron Smith could show up at The Players as a paying punter this week - and a box-office grouping featuring the three best players in the world is tantalising viewing even for the frozen out Australian.
The world no.5 will become the first champion not to defend his title on the PGA Tour's flagship event through non-injury reasons at TPC Sawgrass. There has been a considerable fall from competitive relevance for Smith, arguably the worlds best when he ousted Rory McIlroy to win the 150th Open Championship at St Andrews last July.
His defection to LIV Golf has forced him to not only give up his PGA Tour card, but also his playing and practising membership privileges at the iconic Stadium Course just around the corner from his Florida home.
