John Smoltz, a two-time World Series champion with the Atlanta Braves and the 1996 National League Cy Young Award recipient, is currently preparing to compete in the American Century Championship, a prestigious celebrity golf tournament set to take place at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Club in Nevada. The 58-year-old, who has participated in the event for over a decade, has been making an effort to stay competitive, citing improved physical condition and new hips as key factors in his ability to perform. Smoltz, who has previously finished fourth in the 2024 tournament and tied for 12th in 2023, has stated that he has no excuses for not being in contention to win this year, despite his age.
Smoltz’s approach to the tournament highlights the unique mental pressures of golf, which he described as being more nerve-racking than any moment on the baseball mound. He explained that while baseball allows for some level of teamwork and the ability to rely on teammates, golf demands a complete reliance on the player’s own skills and the unpredictable nature of the course. ‘Golf is all about you and mother nature,’ he said. ‘There’s no teammates to bail you in or out.’ He emphasized that the mental toughness required in golf is a significant challenge, stating that it requires a different kind of resilience compared to the physical demands of baseball.
The American Century Championship, which has been running for over 30 years, brings together a diverse group of personalities from various walks of life, all competing in a challenging environment. Smoltz, like many who participate, looks forward to the event as an opportunity to socialize and test their skills. He praised the organizers for their efforts in creating a high-quality tournament and expressed his admiration for the event’s ability to attract a wide range of participants. The tournament is scheduled to run from July 9 to July 13, with Smoltz set to make a strong push for victory.
Despite his age, Smoltz remains determined and is working hard to improve his game. He has been focusing on his training and recovery, which includes working on his putting and strengthening his physical condition. He has also taken advantage of his current training regime, which includes conducting interviews and Zoom meetings from his golf club, Hawks Ridge, to prepare for the event. Smoltz’s confidence is evident, as he aims to be the oldest winner in the tournament’s history, a feat he believes is within his reach.