Hank Haney gives his take on Tiger Woods' absence at TGL opening day

Tiger Woods' former coach Hank Haney has shared his thoughts surrounding the 82-time PGA Tour winner's absence from the much anticipated opening day of the TGL. Responding to a discussion on X (formerly known as Twitter), the renowned golf instructor emphasized the importance of showcasing the league's broader concept rather than relying solely on the power that the co-founder has.

The TMRW Sports founder will not be the headline on the opening day as the first game featuring his team Jupiter Links Golf Club is on January 14. Here's what Haney wrote (via X @HankHaney):

"True, but if you throw Tiger out there first for TGL you aren’t really proving your concept, it can’t just be the Tiger show."

He commented in response to a critique of the league's line up for New York Golf Club and The Bay Golf Club for the inaugural match on January 7 at the one-of-a-kind innovative SoFi Center in Palm Beach, Florida. Haney stated that while Woods is an unbelievable draw for attention from viewers worldwide, TGL's success in viewership cannot hinge solely on his appearance.

TGL founder Tiger Woods could make his debut at the tournament for the Jupiter Links Golf Club on January 14 when they take on Los Angeles Golf Club.

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Tiger Woods' TGL team receives an honest season preview

Tiger Woods will be spearheading the Jupiter Links Golf Club alongside Max Homa, Kevin Kisner, and Tom Kim. With the among the favorites to come out on top in the inaugural season, Kyle Porter offered his honest preview for the team's chances.

According to the analyst, iron play will be the team's biggest strength. Kim is expected to be the best with hitting into the SoFi Center's massive screen while Kisner could shine on the greens with his short game.

One of TGL's unique features is that all players are miced up for the entirety of the match. He predicted that Homa would be the best miced up while delivering some fan favorite moments. Woods came a close second.

Speaking in regard to the 15-time major championship winner, Portner noted (via TGL.com):

"In one way, Woods is a bit of an unknown going into the season given how little competitive golf he has played lately. Still, I suspect he will thrive in this environment given that his most difficult task – actually walking around the golf course – has been mitigated by playing indoors at SoFi Center... He will be invaluable to this team when it comes to decision making. Players will be able to interact constantly throughout matches and will discuss nearly every shot with one another."

The article published by TGL also stated that no other players or teams in the league will attract bigger attention and audience than the golf legend himself.