When TGL’s first match aired, the vibe was somewhere between bold innovation and chaos. Let’s be honest—watching indoor golf is weird. But by the end of the night, one thing was clear: TGL might not be perfect, but it has potential.
Here’s a breakdown of what worked, what didn’t, and why I’ll be tuning in again.
The Good Stuff
Course Meets Esports
The venue at Jupiter Links GC was nothing short of futuristic. Rotating greens, vibrant visuals, and a primetime atmosphere made it feel like golf meets tennis under the lights. It’s fast-paced and perfect for modern audiences with short attention spans.
As someone who enjoys simulator golf, the virtual course they played on was incredibly cool—unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Here’s hoping they make these courses available on other systems so regular golfers can give them a try!
Tiger & Rory’s Vision
TGL isn’t trying to replace traditional golf broadcasts. Instead, it’s carving out its own lane—a quick, interactive format designed for today’s viewing habits. Tiger and Rory clearly see this as a way to grow the game, and you can see their vision taking shape.
Big Names, Big Moments
It’s not just the tech that’s the draw—it’s the stars. Seeing players like Tiger Woods in a bite-sized, high-energy competition is a win for fans and for golf. It’s hard to look away when these big names are battling it out in this new environment.
The Growing Pains
Long Breaks
I understand the need for a commercial break, but I could do without the long-ish intermission. If TGL is aiming to keep the broadcast around two hours, trimming this down would go a long way toward maintaining the energy and keeping viewers engaged.
DJ Khaled Overload
Too much of a good thing can quickly become… too much. DJ Khaled’s involvement added energy but bordered on overkill by the end of the night.
Awkward Start
The opening felt shaky, with long-winded rule explanations and players visibly adjusting to the format. That said, it’s a first-night issue—they’ll settle in as the season progresses.
Why It’s Worth Watching Again
TGL doesn’t need to replace traditional golf; it just needs to complement it. The format is fast, fun, and introduces a new way to enjoy the sport. With Tiger and Rory leading the charge, this isn’t just a quirky experiment—it’s an opportunity to grow the game, attract new fans, and give golf a fresh, modern twist.
The first night had its hiccups, but that’s part of the charm. If you tuned out early, no judgment—but maybe give it another shot. It’s bold, it’s different, and it might just be the spark golf needs.
What Do You Think?
Did you tune into TGL’s opening night? Share your thoughts in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think about golf’s boldest new format!
