Few debuts come with a one-shot margin over Jon Rahm, and even fewer end with both the Individual Trophy and the Team Trophy.

Elvis Smylie, the Australian golfer, won on his LIV Golf debut at the season-opening event in Riyadh on 7 February 2026. 

During a press conference at LIV Golf Riyadh on Sunday, 8 February, Elvis Smylie was asked to reflect on winning in his first LIV Golf start, where he finished at 24-under par after a final-round 64 to edge Jon Rahm by one stroke.

"Yeah, as soon as that winning putt went in on 18 and I got to celebrate with my caddie, Brad, all the emotions just kind of came out, as you could see. I’m just so grateful to be here, and I feel like I’m really in an environment with these boys, as well, to further progress my golf,” said the 23-year-old.

Rahm closed with four consecutive birdies to apply pressure late, leaving Smylie needing a par on the final hole to seal the win. 

In the final round, both players completed their rounds without a bogey.

At the team level, Ripper GC also secured victory in Riyadh, finishing at 69 under par over four days, three shots ahead of Torque GC. 

Meanwhile, team captain Cam Smith ended the week tied for 13th. Smylie became the first player to win on his LIV Golf debut since 2022. He also posted a 24-under total, the lowest winning score in the league after the move to a 72-hole format for the 2026 season. 

With LIV events now awarding Official World Golf Ranking points to the top 10 finishers, he is projected to rise from 134th to 78th in the rankings.

Elvis Smylie's career journey before LIV Golf

Elvis Smylie is the son of four-time Grand Slam doubles champion Liz Smylie and former tennis professional Peter Smylie.

Before joining LIV, Smylie won the 2024 BMW Australian PGA Championship, finishing ahead of his mentor and current team captain, Cameron Smith. 

During the 2025 season on the DP World Tour, he placed 23rd in the Race to Dubai, which earned him an exemption for the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. 

Smylie’s breakthrough is a worthy testament to the changing competitive landscape of men’s professional golf. For someone who has already proven his merit on the DP World Tour, his Riyadh triumph signals a strong debut as a future contender.

To keep up with his journey, follow Club Golf!

Written by

Aditi Singh

Edited by

Joyita Das