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Cam Smith begins The Open defence as reigning champion tees off at Royal Liverpool Golf Club after whirlwind 12 months that saw Australian leave PGA Tour for LIV

Cam Smith has kicked off his defence of his Open crown in Liverpool, with the Australian looking to hold onto the claret jug this week.

Smith, 29, produced a stunning display last year to announce himself as one of the world's best golfers, before sending shockwaves through the sport by joining Saudi-backed LIV Golf for $100million.

He has struggled to replicate the sensational form that saw him win last year, finishing 34th and 9th in the Masters and PGA Championship respectively, but enters in a buoyant mood after winning LIV Golf Invitational London earlier this month.