Tiger Woods' highly anticipated debut in the new tech-driven indoor golf league, TGL, was the centerpiece of Tuesday night's action.
But despite the hype and Woods' legendary status, his Jupiter Links Golf Club suffered a crushing 12-1 defeat against L.A. Golf Club in the league’s second-ever match.
Woods, a co-creator of TGL, stepped onto the course to a dramatic introduction set to Eye of the Tiger. This marked only his second competitive appearance since the 2024 Open Championship, and while TGL offers a more relaxed format, it didn’t soften the blow of Jupiter’s struggles.
A Rocky Start for Jupiter Links
Woods opened the night by teeing off, delivering a clean drive that set an optimistic tone. However, his team’s performance quickly unraveled.
Teammate Kevin Kisner struggled throughout the night, and while Max Homa showed flashes of steadiness, it wasn’t enough to counteract L.A.’s dominance.
Led by Justin Rose, Collin Morikawa, and Sahith Theegala, L.A. Golf Club jumped to a commanding 5-0 lead through the first three holes.
Rose, energized by the crowd, delivered clutch putts and exuded Ryder Cup-like confidence despite the overwhelmingly pro-Tiger audience.
Woods attempted to shift momentum by playing the “hammer,” doubling the point value on a hole, and even icing Rose with a timeout before a critical putt. However, Rose calmly sank the putt, delighting his teammates and quieting the crowd with a playful finger wag.
Jupiter’s lone bright spot came on the 6th hole, where they managed to score on a concession. But L.A. quickly reclaimed control, closing out the nine-hole triples portion with an 8-1 lead.
The singles portion was equally lopsided. Kisner added a touch of drama, hitting the flagstick on a sand save attempt and nearly sinking the ensuing long putt.
Meanwhile, Theegala’s brilliant tee shot on the final hole sealed the match for L.A., securing the most decisive win in TGL’s short history.
While TGL boasts innovative gameplay and a unique atmosphere, its broadcast presentation remains a work in progress. ESPN struggled to strike the right tone, wavering between reverence for the sport and the playful, almost casual energy the format invites.
Segments featuring sponsor executives, such as a stiff interview with team co-owner Serena Williams, fell flat, and the fan experience didn’t translate well to television. The in-arena energy with loud music and cheering fans felt distant and echo-laden on TV.
Still, golf fans appreciated a rare win over basketball in the broadcasting hierarchy when TGL bumped the end of the Duke-Miami game to ESPN News.
TGL will return next week with Xander Schauffele’s New York Golf Club taking on Justin Thomas’ Atlanta Drive Golf Club. Jupiter Links will have another chance to bounce back on January 27, when Rory McIlroy’s Boston Common Golf Club makes its debut.
For now, Woods and his team face an uphill battle, both on the course and in helping refine a league still finding its footing.
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