Former Open champion Cameron Smith has declared his move from the PGA Tour to LIV Golf two years ago as the ‘best decision’ he’s ever made. Smith followed the likes of Phil Mickelson, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau to LIV and was one of the biggest names to make the switch.

His decision came as a surprise, just weeks after his triumphant win at St Andrews. At that time, Smith was the world’s second-best golfer, fresh off his Claret Jug victory, and was stepping into uncharted territory with LIV still in its infancy.

Despite facing initial criticism and a ban from the PGA Tour, Smith has thrived in the breakaway league and has no regrets about his choice. “It was the best decision of my life,” the former world No. 2 told the Herald Sun, referring to his decision to join the Saudi-backed league.

Smith also shared that he has not only enjoyed the growth of the LIV league since his move but also the flexibility it offers him with a lighter playing schedule, allowing him more visits to his home country, Australia.

“Not only from where the tour is going and where it will end up but also from a life standpoint as well,” he added. “The extra time I get to spend in Australia compared to what I used to means a lot. I feel like I am a much happier person now compared to where I was before.”

Smith explained his contentment since Greg Norman, the CEO of LIV Golf and fellow Aussie who brought him on board, launched the controversial league. Reports from Sports Business Journal suggest that the Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is scouting for a new CEO to replace Norman. While Norman is expected to remain with LIV Golf, rumors suggest he might lose his top executive position.

This potential shake-up has come as news to Smith, who expressed surprise at the idea of Norman being ousted: “I definitely was not aware of it,” he mentioned, adding, “I was pretty surprised myself. I think he has been under a lot of (public) scrutiny for a few years. They had said he was going to go and he hasn’t. I would not be surprised if it was all just a rumour. But by the same token I am not in the loop as to what is going on on the tour.”