Aussie Elvis Smylie Eyes LIV Golf Glory in Riyadh Debut
In the glittering lights of Riyadh Golf Club, Australian golf sensation Elvis Smylie is making waves on his LIV Golf debut. The 23-year-old left-hander fired a stunning seven-under-par 65 in the third round, propelling him to the outright lead alongside American Peter Uihlein at 16 under. As the season-opening event stretches to a historic four rounds, Smylie stands just one stroke clear of defending champion Talor Gooch, positioning himself for what could be his first LIV individual title and third professional victory overall.
Smylie's Meteoric Rise on the Saudi-Backed Circuit
Elvis Smylie's entry into LIV Golf hasn't been a quiet one. Turning professional in 2021 after a promising amateur career, the Queensland native has already notched two domestic triumphs: the WA Open and the Australian PGA Championship in late 2024. But stepping onto the controversial, Saudi-funded tour was always going to be a defining moment. At Riyadh, under the unique conditions of night play and high altitude, Smylie has adapted seamlessly.
"I'm in a great position to come out and win tomorrow, and that's why I practice the way I do and work hard," Smylie said post-round, his confidence palpable. His third-round performance was a masterclass in precision—a bogey-free card featuring five birdies and a jaw-dropping eagle on the 627-yard par-3 fifth hole. That monster approach shot to the green highlighted his booming left-handed power, a trait that's turning heads in the pro ranks.
With only two bogeys across 54 holes, Smylie's consistency is remarkable. Had the tournament stuck to LIV's traditional 54-hole format, he and Uihlein would already be in a playoff. Instead, the extended four-round structure— the first of its kind since LIV's 2022 launch—adds extra drama, culminating on Saturday (Sunday AEDT).
Family Legacy: From Tennis Courts to Golf Fairways
Born into sporting royalty, Elvis is the son of former Australian tennis stars Liz and Peter Smylie. Liz, a two-time Grand Slam doubles champion, and Peter, a Davis Cup player, instilled a competitive fire in their son from an early age. While his parents dominated the courts in the 1980s and '90s, Elvis has carved his path on the greens, blending athleticism with tactical acumen.
Growing up in Brisbane, Smylie honed his skills at local clubs before earning a golf scholarship in the U.S. His amateur exploits included representing Australia in international competitions, setting the stage for his pro breakthrough. Now, with LIV's lucrative contracts and global spotlight, he's proving that the Smylie name translates effortlessly to golf's elite stage.
The Competition Heats Up: Chasing the Leader
Smylie's lead isn't insurmountable. Lurking one shot back at 15 under is Talor Gooch, captain of Smash GC and a two-time LIV winner. Gooch's steady third-round 67 underscores his experience in the league, having competed in all 51 prior events. But for Smylie, matching wits with such veterans is part of the appeal.
Two strokes further adrift at 14 under is a powerhouse trio led by Spain's Jon Rahm, the former world No. 1 and two-time major champion skippering Legion XIII. Rahm's 67 in the third round keeps him firmly in contention, his major pedigree a reminder of the high stakes. Fellow Australians are also making noise: Marc Leishman sits at 10 under after a 68, while Lucas Herbert birdied his way to nine under with a 65. Even 2022 Open champion Cameron Smith, at eight under following a 68, remains a threat in the deep field.
The Riyadh event's night-time setup, combined with the course's altitude, has leveled the playing field somewhat, forcing adjustments in ball flight and strategy. Smylie, embracing the challenge, noted, "It's a different environment playing at night. You're playing at a little bit of altitude as well." His comfort level speaks volumes—he feels "really comfortable" and in "total control," vowing to maintain his form into the final round.
LIV Golf's Evolution: Four Rounds of Intensity
This Riyadh tournament marks a pivotal shift for LIV Golf. By extending to 72 holes, the tour addresses criticisms of its shorter format while amplifying the prestige. For debutants like Smylie, it's an opportunity to "prove my worth in this league," as he put it. Winning here wouldn't just add to his resume; it would cement his status among the best, potentially fast-tracking invitations to majors and other elite invites.
The Saudi-backed circuit continues to polarize the golf world, drawing top talent with its no-cut, team-based format and massive purses. Smylie's performance could sway more Australians—already well-represented by the likes of Smith, Min Woo Lee, and now Smylie himself—to consider the jump.
What's Next for the Rising Aussie Star?
As the final round looms, all eyes are on Smylie to deliver a statement. A victory would echo his parents' Grand Slam successes, bridging generations of Australian sports excellence. Beyond the immediate prize, it positions him for a breakout 2026 season, where LIV's global schedule offers platforms to challenge the PGA Tour elite.
Smylie's journey from Queensland junior to LIV frontrunner is a testament to grit and talent. "Just keep doing what I'm doing ... I'm feeling great," he affirmed. If he sustains that momentum, golf fans Down Under could be toasting a new champion. Stay tuned as the drama unfolds in Riyadh—LIV Golf's future might just have an Aussie accent.
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