‘I Was Honest And Up Front Of Why I Joined LIV And It Was Purely For The Money’ – Richard Bland On LIV Golf Decision, His Retirement Plans And Response To Saudi Money Critics

In an in-depth interview on the latest Monthly Meets episode, Richard Bland, the English golfer, elaborated on his reasons for joining LIV Golf and his retirement plans. This discussion occurred before his impressive US Senior Open victory.

Bland is forthright about his motivations: money was the primary factor in his decision to join LIV Golf, despite not receiving any signing bonuses. He emphasized that the financial rewards validated his choice, as he earned over $3.5 million in the first season and more than $4.4 million in 2023, with tournament purses reaching $20 million for individual events. For 2024, Bland has already accumulated $2.3 million from LIV Golf and secured $630,000 for his Senior PGA win and $800,000 at the US Senior Open. His career on the DP World Tour has yielded nearly €8 million from 511 tournaments.

“I joined LIV Golf purely for the money,” Bland told Golf Monthly’s Dan Parker. “I wasn’t trying to deceive anyone; I was transparent about my motives.”

Bland acknowledged the criticism faced by some for their involvement in LIV Golf, but he stands by his decision, stating it has significantly improved his family’s financial stability. He also clarified that he received no signing bonus, unlike top players like Bryson DeChambeau, Brooks Koepka, and Jon Rahm, who secured substantial deals.

“Joining LIV Golf was a straightforward decision for me and my family. I don’t resent those who received large bonuses; they earned them,” Bland said. He emphasized that the moral objections to LIV Golf often come from a place of theoretical rather than practical consideration.

“If people were offered substantial financial security, they’d likely accept it, regardless of its source,” he added, defending his choice amid ongoing criticism.

Bland aims to continue playing in LIV Golf for another 18 months to two years, having recently renewed his contract with Martin Kaymer’s Cleeks GC team. He envisions retiring from competitive golf once his time with LIV ends, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and travel.

“My brother’s health has shifted my priorities. I don’t see myself competing beyond 55 or 56 unless it’s with LIV,” the 51-year-old explained. He mentioned that while he might still participate in some senior events, his primary focus is on retiring and enjoying life beyond golf.

Reflecting on his exclusion from the PGA Tour Champions due to his affiliation with LIV Golf, Bland expressed no regrets. Despite qualifying through his Senior PGA Championship and US Senior Open wins, he remains unbothered by the decision, attributing it to his association with a rival tour.

“I knew the PGA Tour wouldn’t grant me a card because of LIV. It doesn’t concern me; it’s their loss, not mine,” Bland remarked, criticizing the PGA Tour for not being straightforward about the reason for his ineligibility.

Bland concluded that his future lies away from the competitive circuit, looking forward to traveling and enjoying life without the pressures of professional golf.

“I’ve spent 30 years in the sport; it’s time to step away and enjoy other aspects of life,” he reflected, expressing his anticipation for a life free from the rigors of tournament golf.