Austin Smotherman reflects on a breakthrough week at the 2026 Cognizant Classic—his first-ever Sunday final group in contention, holding the lead for 54 holes, and learning how to stay present under pressure. He also reacts to the late drama ahead of him, shares his long-time connection with Nico, and looks ahead to his first Arnold Palmer Invitational (Bay Hill) appearance.
Golf Players
4 Comments
Super guy…class act and great attitude. Hope he wins soon!
Played well! I am sure he will be back in contention again soon. Birdies don't come easy on Sunday. Shane put so much psi on all the leaders. Unbelievable to see him lose, but, he will be back again as well. In golf, you better have a short memory for the highs and lows!
Great attitude, but hopefully down the road he is more disappointed when he loses when close. Good guy, but will need to feel more pain on close calls. For now, this attitude might be great, but if he wants to win, he has to know that deep pain is the result of not winning.
👍🇬🇧♥️