Cameron Smith claims breakthrough LIV Golf win in Chicago

Cam Smith felt like he had plenty to prove after controversially defecting to the LIV Tour — and he has wasted little time in doing so.

SUGAR GROVE, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 18: Team Captain Cameron Smith of Punch GC plays his shot on the third tee during Day Three of the LIV Golf Invitational - Chicago at Rich Harvest Farms on September 18, 2022 in Sugar Grove, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)

Cameron Smith has wasted little time vindicating the massive investment by Greg Norman in his signature after cruising to a three-shot win in the latest LIV Tour event in Chicago.

Smith, playing only his second tournament on the Saudi-backed rebel tour following his controversial switch from the PGA Tour, secured the biggest cheque of his career — a whopping $US4 million.

The 29-year-old was lured across golf’s divide by Norman after receiving a reported payment of $140 million, his signature hailed as a pivotal moment for the rebel tour, which has been accused of sport washing the shocking human rights record of Saudi Arabia.

Cameron Smith has claimed his first win since joining the LIV Tour. Picture: Getty Images

Smith said his sole focus was on winning and he backed those words with actions on Monday morning as he secured his first victory since his momentous triumph at the Open Championship at St Andrew’s.

“I think I had to prove to myself and some other people that I’m still a great player,” Smith said after his win.

“I’m still out here to win golf tournaments.”

Cameron Smith secured the biggest cheque of his career — a whopping $US4 million. Picture: Getty Images

Smith, wearing his traditional maroon top in honour of his home state of Queensland, began the final day three shots in front.

He fired a 69 in the final round to finish at 13 under and secure his first LIV win from Americans Dustin Johnson and Peter Uihlein.