Richard Bland, a former member of the DP World Tour and current LIV Golf player, has expressed his strong disapproval of the “strategic alliance” between the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour. This partnership, announced in November 2020, has been a topic of controversy among golfers and fans alike.
Bland’s Outspoken Press Conference
At a press conference on the eve of the Asian Tour’s International Series – England tournament, Bland made his feelings clear. He criticized the agreement, which allows the top 10 players on the DP World Tour’s Race to Dubai points list to gain exemption for the following season on the PGA Tour.
Bland’s Concerns About the Partnership
Bland believes that getting into bed with the PGA Tour was a mistake. He thinks that PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan only cares about attracting the best DP World Tour players to the PGA Tour, rather than genuinely supporting the DP World Tour.
Lack of Reciprocity from the PGA Tour
Bland feels that the PGA Tour does not care about the DP World Tour and never has. He thinks that the partnership is one-sided, benefiting the PGA Tour more than the DP World Tour.
Alternative Option
Bland, along with many other DP World Tour members, believes that the tour should have pursued a financial agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund instead of partnering with the PGA Tour. This option would have provided significant financial resources for the DP World Tour.
Bland’s Personal Experience
Bland, who famously won his first European/DP World Tour event at the 478th attempt, has personal experience with the DP World Tour. He defected to LIV Golf, citing his dissatisfaction with the DP World Tour’s partnership with the PGA Tour.
Strong Opinions
Bland’s outspoken comments reflect the strong opinions held by many golfers and fans about the partnership between the DP World Tour and the PGA Tour. The debate continues, with some supporting the partnership and others criticizing it.
I’m not sure I agree with Richard criticism. I can’t wait to see what this partnership plays out.
I guess he’s just paranoid about this situation and he needs a break off all these
I really don’t think it should matter to Richard Bland, whether he’s getting paid or not should be the issue… It’s the passion for the game I guess.
I don’t really understand and know exactly what is going on but God will need to intervene and help them
Richard Bland has tried enough
They should let him be
Haven’t they done enough?