Cameron Smith Contends at LIV Golf Indianapolis Finale; Younghan Song Close

Smith Chases First Win in Three Years

Cameron Smith, the Australian player, enters the final round of the LIV Golf season finale just one stroke behind the leader. Smith holds a share of second place at 12-under par. This tournament in Indianapolis represents Smith’s opportunity for a first victory in over three years. His last win was at LIV Bedminster in August 2023.

The final round is scheduled for Sunday, 23 August 2026, at The Club at Chatham Hills in Westfield. Michael La Sasso, a 22-year-old American, leads the field. La Sasso is at 13-under par. A total of 14 players are within three shots of the lead, setting up a competitive conclusion.

Third Round Performance Details

Smith’s third round, a three-under-par 67, saw fluctuations. He started strongly, securing three birdies within his first seven holes. This moved him into a share of the lead at 12-under. However, he encountered challenges on the course’s easier holes. Smith did not birdie the par-four 13th.

He then faced difficulty on the par-five 14th, requiring a scramble to avoid a bogey after a bunker shot landed in deep greenside rough. A three-putt on the 15th resulted in a bogey. He also missed birdie opportunities on the 16th and 17th. Despite a wayward drive on the par-five 18th, Smith recovered to make a crucial birdie.

This recovery ensured he finished the day within one shot of the lead. Smith described his round as “pretty solid” and the conditions as “pretty tricky.”

Leaderboard Remains Tight

Michael La Sasso, the leader, posted a second-round 60. He reached 14-under par during his third round, establishing a three-shot advantage over Smith. La Sasso’s lead then reduced before the close of play. Sharing second place with Smith at 12-under are England’s Richard Bland, who shot a 65, and Laurie Canter, who carded a 68.

Belgium’s Thomas Detry also sits at 12-under after a 68. Two shots further back, at 11-under, are Spain’s Sergio Garcia and Josele Ballester, both with 66 and 65 respectively. American Bubba Watson recorded a 67 to also reach 11-under. South Korea’s Younghan Song is also tied at 11-under after a 65. Jon Rahm, the former world No.1, fired a 67 and remains within contention.

In the team competition, Smith’s all-Australian Ripper GC moved to third place, three strokes behind Rahm’s Legion XIII.

Implications for Asian Golfers and LIV Tour

The close contest at the LIV Golf finale in Indianapolis holds relevance for Asian golf. The strong performance by South Korea’s Younghan Song demonstrates the competitive level of regional players on a global stage. His presence near the top of the leaderboard can generate increased interest among Asian golf fans and players.

LIV Golf has expanded its presence in Asia with past events. A compelling finish to its season, particularly with an Asian contender, can influence future tour scheduling and player recruitment from the region. For travelling golfers, the outcome of such high-profile events shapes the perception of tours and player strength.

This can impact decisions regarding which events to follow or which players to watch for in Asian tournaments. The final round will determine if Smith can secure a significant individual and team victory, or if a new leader emerges.