The Story Behind the Creation of Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s TGL

PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. — Shane Lowry’s teeless drive marked a lighthearted start to the inaugural season of TGL at the SoFi Center. The high-tech golf league promised team play on the world’s largest simulator in a cutting-edge facility. Catch Tiger Woods and his Jupiter Links GC squad face Collin Morikawa and the Los Angeles Golf Club on Tuesday night (7 p.m. ET, ESPN/ESPN+), expected to draw more attention.

TMRW Sports CEO Mike McCarley, along with Woods and Rory McIlroy, spearheaded the creation of TGL after McCarley’s idea for team golf came to life during the 2016 Summer Olympics. Leveraging Woods’ experience with simulators, McCarley pitched the idea to top golfers before securing the PGA Tour’s support.

With Woods and McIlroy on board, and the PGA Tour as a partner, TGL’s innovative technology received a boost. By October 2022, TMRW Sports had a state-of-the-art simulator and virtual green in place in Winter Park, Florida. Subsequent testing and developments in Sweden and Orlando fine-tuned the hardware and software for TGL’s launch.

The delay due to a stadium mishap in November 2023 allowed for further enhancements, including redesigned holes and a new arena design in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The eventual kickoff saw The Bay Golf Club triumph over New York Golf Club, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

TGL’s successful debut match garnered almost a million viewers on ESPN, outperforming LIV Golf and PGA Tour broadcasts. With plans for future expansions, including a potential LPGA collaboration, TGL aims to keep fans engaged and enhance the product as the inaugural season progresses. Expectations are high for a thrilling and transformative journey in the world of high-tech team golf.

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