The anticipated launch of TGL (TMRW Golf League), a groundbreaking golf league formed by TMRW Sports in collaboration with PGA Tour and backed by sports executive Mike McCarley, Tiger Woods, and Rory McIlroy, is set to be postponed until early 2025. The setback comes in the wake of a recent roof collapse incident that occurred overnight on Tuesday, November 14.
The collapse, resulting from a failure in the temporary power system and backup systems used during construction, caused damage to the air-supported dome section of the venue. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the majority of the technological infrastructure remained unaffected.
In light of this unforeseen circumstance, TGL, in consultation with key stakeholders, including players, team ownership groups, PGA TOUR leadership, and commercial partners such as SoFi, ESPN, and Palm Beach State College, has made the decision to reschedule the start of the inaugural season. The new timeline aims to accommodate short-term solutions, potential construction timelines, player schedules, and the primetime sports television calendar.
“We are partners with TGL and fully support their decision. We have believed in them and their vision from the beginning, and that has not changed. The additional time to plan, test and rehearse will only make it better. We look forward to launching the inaugural season on ESPN.“—Rosalyn Durant, ESPN Executive Vice President, Programming and Acquisitions:
“I’ve been a believer in TGL, and as the momentum has built this past year, I’m even more excited about what this can become for fans of the game all around the world. Although the events of last week will force us to make adjustments to our timelines, I’m fully confident that this concept will be brought to life by our great committed players,” said Tiger Woods. Key constituent Rory McIlroy acknowledges the mixed feelings of disappointment and excitement, emphasizing that the delay allows for regrouping and a stronger return.
“Our group invested in TGL San Francisco because we are excited to bring a new team and innovative game to the growing number of golf fans regionally and nationally. We believe that TGL San Francisco will be a beloved team in Northern California and beyond and will use the next year to build excitement, energy, and passion for our team and the league, setting us up for greater success in 2025,” stated Marc Lasry, Chairman and CEO, Avenue Capital Group.
Despite the delay, TGL remains optimistic about the future. The league is committed to delivering an exceptional experience, and the extension is seen as an opportunity to enhance the overall product. TGL’s vision revolves around bringing a new and exciting dimension to the game of golf, and the postponement will provide additional time for planning, testing, and rehearsing.
Partners such as ESPN, SoFi, and team ownership groups echo their support for the decision. Rosalyn Durant, ESPN Executive Vice President, Programming and Acquisitions, states, “We fully support their decision. The additional time to plan, test, and rehearse will only make it better.” Anthony Noto, CEO of SoFi, expresses confidence in the decision, anticipating increased appeal and interest over the coming months.
Despite the setback, TGL’s team ownership groups, including Atlanta Drive GC, Boston Common Golf, Los Angeles Golf Club, New York, and San Francisco, remain unwavering in their commitment. The postponement is viewed as an opportunity to build stronger brands, engage with local communities, and ensure a highly successful inaugural season in 2025.
Dr Ava L. Parker, J.D., President of Palm Beach State College, reaffirms their commitment to the venture, emphasizing the unique educational opportunity TGL provides.
Mike McCarley, Co-Founder and CEO of TMRW Sports, expresses disappointment over the delay but underscores gratitude for the overwhelming support from athletes, teams, and business partners. “We are disappointed with the delay but thankful that no one was injured and grateful for the overwhelming support from our athletes, teams, Palm Beach State College and business partners. Their steadfast belief in the success of TGL and their alignment with the decision to postpone the inaugural season will allow us to regroup and return with the best product possible at our preferred time on the sports calendar,” said McCarley.
As TGL navigates this temporary setback, the league remains focused on realizing its vision and delivering an unforgettable experience to players, fans, and sponsors alike when it officially kicks off in early 2025.
