“What a joke” “Very dividing. It’s sad” – Fans sound off on PGA Tour as it reportedly denies Champions Tour exemption to Richard Bland

Despite winning the Senior PGA Championship, Richard Bland has been denied the Champions Tour exemption by the PGA Tour. The Tour cited Bland's association with LIV Golf as the reason for their decision.

Last week, Bland made his senior Major debut at the Senior PGA Championship after receiving a special invitation from the PGA of America. He ended up shooting 17-under in the tournament and earning a three-shot victory. As per the rules, the Major winner gets an exemption for the senior tour. However, that wasn't the case with the 51-year-old golfer.

The PGA Tour made it clear that Richard Bland will not be eligible for any exemption despite winning the Senior PGA Championship.

"In spite of the win, because of competing in an unauthorized event by the PGA TOUR, he will be ineligible for TOUR-affiliated events," the PGA Tour said as per Bob Harig of Sports Illustrated. "The PGA of America, USGA and R&A each operate based on criteria of their own."

Fans online reacted strongly to the PGA Tour's decision. Numerous fans felt that the division in golf was not good for the game. Some also stated that this was not a good look if the Tour wanted to make progress in its negotiations with PIF.

Here's a look at some of the reactions.

"What a joke," one fan wrote.

"very dividing. It’s sad," another fan posted

"Another L for the PGA," this fan commented. "Let Richard play!"

"Congrats on the W Richy! You'd expect the PGA to respond this way, at least until they figure it out a path back, just hope they look at milestones like Major finishes as a contributing factor to regain starting status. The PGA lacks clear voice and nuance, which costs them," one user commented.

"I think as long as he is exempt for all the champions tour majors based on this win for however many years similar to the regular PGA tour there is no issue. Such a shame this divide is now impacting the seniors too. I just want to see the best players compete in one field simple," another user opined.

"I don’t see Bland playing the Champions Tour regardless. Why would he? He’ll continue to play LIV, plus the Senior Majors and I believe he’s already exempt into the Open Championship. That’s plenty of golf and $$$ for a 51 year old," this fan wrote.

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"I just wanted to win for him so bad," Richard Bland dedicates his win to his ailing brother

Following his win at the Senior PGA Championship, Richard Bland dedicated his victory to his brother Heath. Heath was first diagnosed with stomach cancer a year ago and recently found out that he had lung cancer as well.

"I just wanted to win for him so bad," Bland was quoted as saying via ESPN.

Richard Bland will next compete at LIV Golf Houston, the first event on the Saudi-backed circuit after the mid-season break. The tournament will take place from June 7 to 9 at the Golf Club of Houston in Houston, Texas. Bland is currently placed 25th in the season standings.