Charles Howell denies money had anything to do with his decision to break away from the PGA Tour to join LIV Golf.
Howell, 43, was the surprise addition to LIV Golf ahead of its third tournament in Bedminster.
Jason Kokrak, Henrik Stenson and Paul Casey will also be making their LIV Golf debuts this week.
“Money was not a factor,” said Howell, who ranks 19th in the all-time career money list on the PGA Tour with more than $42 million.
“For me, I’ve been there for 22 years, and it’s been awesome,” continued Howell, who has three PGA Tour titles to his name.
“I’ve got nothing but great things to say about the PGA Tour, what they’ve given me, the opportunities etc, but when this came along, I’m 43 years old, I’ve done a lot of that. I still love the game. I love the game more today than I did five years ago.”
“Now that my son is playing competitive golf, I’m even more incentivized in the game. This is something really new and exciting.”
Howell did not exactly elaborate on the main reason why he has joined LIV Golf but he has taken a shine to the team element.
He also sounded excited that captain Bryson DeChambeau wanted him on Crushers GC.
“Bryson DeChambeau reaches out and says, I’d love for you to be a part of my team,” said Howell. “That’s a compliment but it’s also a responsibility.
“OK, I’ve got to play well; I’m responsible not only for myself but for Paul [Casey], for Bryson, for others. It’s new and exciting.”
“Not that the PGA Tour got boring, but I’m extremely excited to be here for the next few years, and yeah, it’s a new venture, and at this age and this part of my life, it’s perfect.”
Howell has not resigned his PGA Tour membership but he will now be suspended by the PGA Tour and he will miss the FedEx Cup Playoffs.
Howell joins Casey and Shaun Norris on DeChambeau’s team in Bedminster.
Asked Charles Howell III if joining LIV was about the (guaranteed) money: “Money was not a factor.” pic.twitter.com/C4euMKdFAv
— Brian Wacker (@brianwacker1) July 27, 2022
Article originally appeared on: Golfmagic.com
I for one cannot find the words for those leaving the PGA for the LIV Golf saying its not the money come on guys you are human and we all know money drives everyone so stop with the B.S..
Players in their 40s don’t want or need to be on the road criss crossing the country 30 + weeks and competing at the highest level against the newest crop of 25s like Scheffler Zalatoris Hovland. They want to raise kids. Bravo. Too bad the PGATOUR didn’t realize this and create a veteran card for the 40 to 50 year olds, less travel, fewer mandatory events, and thus opening spots for more intl newcomers who could be given provisional cards to play in events where the veterans are not playing.
You are on target with your thoughts.