“Money doesn’t change me as a person”: NHL star Meier talks about his 70 million contract

Blick: Timo Meier, your feelings after the mega contract deal with the New Jersey Devils?
Tim Meier: It is certainly a rescue. The uncertainty lasted a bit longer and started in San José. There I didn’t know for a long time whether I would stay or be traded. After the trade to the Devils, I wondered if it would work in New Jersey and if we could find a long-term solution. Now that I have the certainty that I am part of the Devils, a great burden has been lifted from my shoulders. At the same time, the motivation is enormous.

Is it reassuring that you’ve had the best years of your career?
Yes of course. Knowing that I will continue to be part of this team, New Jersey will be my new home. That’s why I don’t take my foot off the accelerator. I can now play freely without these ulterior motives that I have had in my head for the past two years. With the attitude that I want to win the Stanley Cup with New Jersey.

Is that why you’re aiming for an eight-year contract?
As an athlete it is nice to know that you are being bet on. But I had to earn that. This contract is a special moment for everyone who has accompanied me on my journey.

The reactions of your Swiss teammates at the Devils?
I received many congratulations from all my colleagues. It’s nice to know that I’ve been awarded this. People know my path, which was beautiful but also rocky at times. Being able to share this success with them means a lot to me.

What did you treat yourself to celebrate the new contract?
A nice dinner with my parents and my sister. So we toasted it.

And how do you reward yourself?
That was not my first thought. Maybe with a more exclusive trip with my family.

Are you a saver? For example a house?
I already have a nice house in Rorschach (laughs). If I want to buy something, I buy it. But I don’t want to brag about money.

What does it do to you that everyone knows your salary?
Nothing, it is what it is. I’ve known it this way for a long time and I can’t change it. But money doesn’t change me as a person and money alone doesn’t make you happy either.

Your ex and NHL star colleagues Mark Streit and Roman Josi bought a mineral spring along with other great athletes. Where do you board?
(laughs) I didn’t think about that either. But I like to get involved with the young people at SC Herisau, where I also grew up.