Richard Bland, a well-known name among golf fans for a long time, has become even more famous after winning the US Senior Open, following his earlier victory in another senior PGA event. Many know that Bland is part of LIV Golf and has decided to join the Saudi-backed Tour to earn money. In an interview with Golf Monthly's Dan Parker, he admitted that money was the main motivator behind his decision. Unlike some colleagues, Bland openly stated why he joined this Tour.
Bland didn't think much about the decision. He knew joining LIV Golf would bring him and his family huge money. The 51-year-old Briton doesn't seem happy with statements from some colleagues who said they want to play on a Tour where they have the opportunity to advance and become part of golf evolution
Bland clarified that, contrary to what some might believe, LIV Golf did not offer him any financial motivation to join. His decision was based only on the opportunity to play in the league. He emphasized that he had nothing to hide and that his motivation was purely about the chance to compete.
The decision to join was discussed with his wife and family, and finally, it was an easy choice for him. He did not receive any monetary compensation for joining and held no resentment towards those who signed lucrative deals, stressing that they deserved their earnings.
The Brit acknowledged that he hadn't been at the top of the golf world rankings as long as some of the other players. He had only been in the top 50 for about a year, so he felt it would have been presumptuous to demand $10 million. He contrasted his situation with that of players like Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau, who had been in the top 10 for nearly a decade. He expressed gratitude that LIV Golf believed in him and gave him the opportunity, and he hoped he had repaid their faith in him through his performance.
Bland provided an interesting example, arguing that the criticisms directed at him were unfounded. The Briton believes that anyone would have acted in the same way if given the chance. The 52-year-old thinks it's easy to talk about morals and decisions when you don't have a bag of money in front of you. He went on to give a great example, suggesting that everyone would go after the money that can ensure a secure future, not just for themselves, but for their family as well.
Richard Bland and his plans
Regarding the future, he intends to play in the LIV Golf series for the next few years and then retire once that period ends. His career has been long, spanning 30 years, and Bland believes there comes a time when you have to say goodbye to golf. He wants to dedicate more time to his family, his wife, and travel as much as possible.
Although he has visited many countries throughout his career, he never had the opportunity to explore any of them in depth, which is a great wish of his. The 52-year-old has clear plans and hopes that everything will turn out as he envisioned.
