A new king of the links is rising in the land down under – and his name is Elvis. No, not that Elvis. Meet Elvis Smylie, the 22-year-old Australian golf prodigy who is shaking up the sport ahead of this week’s prestigious Australian Open. Fresh off a stunning victory at the Australian PGA Championship, where he outdueled mentor and fellow Aussie star Cam Smith, Smylie has the golfing world all shook up.
The Boy Named Elvis
So who is this fresh-faced phenom making a name for himself on the fairways? Born to Australian tennis royalty Peter and Elizabeth Smylie, Elvis was named after his father’s musical idol, Elvis Presley. But while he may share a moniker with the King of Rock and Roll, the younger Elvis admits his talents lie with a different kind of club.
Someone actually asked me on the 18th tee at the PGA last week, can I sing? I just smiled and said, nowhere near as well as Elvis.
– Elvis Smylie
Smylie turned pro at the tender age of 18 and initially struggled to live up to his early promise. But a change in coach to renowned instructor Ritchie Smith, along with a renewed focus on fitness and nutrition, has helped the slender 6-footer pack on muscle and elevate his game to a new level.
Chicken, Rice, and Birdies
To fuel his rise, Smylie sticks to a disciplined diet heavy on lean proteins and complex carbs. “In order to make the changes technically with my coach, I’ve had to get stronger in the gym and put on a bit more weight,” he explains. “For me it’s the chicken, rice, and veggies diet, just trying to eat as much as I can.” It seems to be paying off, with his crisp ball-striking drawing praise from none other than tennis icon Ivan Lendl, a noted golf enthusiast.
I’ve known Ivan for quite some time now, he loves his golf, and he was watching all the way from the States.
– Elvis Smylie, on receiving congratulations from Ivan Lendl
The Elvis Era Begins?
As he looks to back up his breakout PGA win at this week’s Australian Open, the expectations are building for Smylie. Many are wondering if golf’s next big thing has arrived. But the level-headed youngster isn’t getting ahead of himself, maintaining the even-keel demeanor that has earned him a reputation as an “old soul” on tour.
There will be a time to celebrate, but for now, I’m really looking forward to doing my best here.
– Elvis Smylie, on staying focused amid the hype
With his combination of preternatural talent, athletic pedigree, and quiet self-belief, Elvis Smylie has all the attributes to become golf’s newest sensation – in Australia and beyond. As he continues to refine his unique swing and fill out his wiry frame, it may not be long before this Elvis has fans screaming his name at the 18th green. The golf world is eager to see what smash hits young Mr. Smylie drops next.
