Elvis Smylie Claims First DP World Tour Win, Holds Off Cameron Smith to Win Australian PGA Championship
Elvis Smylie achieved a career-defining victory at the Australian PGA Championship, holding off the challenge of British Open winner Cameron Smith to secure his first DP World Tour title at Royal Queensland Golf Club in Brisbane. The 22-year-old Queenslander carded a final round of 67, four-under-par, to finish the tournament at 14-under, two shots clear of Smith, who posted a 69 to finish at 12-under.
The tournament, which was shortened to 54 holes after heavy rain washed out play on Friday, saw Smylie take control early in the final round. He made an impressive start with back-to-back birdies on the opening holes, moving to 12-under. However, it was his performance on the sixth hole that set him apart, as he capitalized on a birdie to extend his lead to two shots, while Smith bogeyed the hole. At the turn, Smylie had picked up four shots, while Smith had only managed one birdie against three bogeys, leaving the former with a three-shot advantage.
Smylie’s composure under pressure was evident as he drained a 30-foot putt on the 12th hole to save par, despite a growing struggle with his tee shots. While Smith was not backing down, his challenge faltered when he chipped in for birdie at the 17th, cutting the deficit to just two shots. Both players faced identical bunker shots on the final hole, but Smylie held his nerve, dropping his shot within a few feet of the hole, while Smith’s attempt from the sand failed to hole out, ensuring Smylie’s victory.
Reflecting on his achievement, Smylie described it as a “dream come true,” expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to compete alongside players he had admired for years. “It’s such an honour to be in the presence of guys like Cam and Marc [Leishman],” he said. His victory at the Australian PGA Championship marked a significant milestone in his career, and he earned widespread respect for his steady play under pressure.
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