What happened to Tiger Woods and Rory Mcllroy Golf league? Current status explored

Modified Nov 22, 2023 16:18 GMT

TGL is the upcoming league owned by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy (Image via Oisin Keniry/R&A/Getty )

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's much-anticipated league, the TGL, has been delayed by one year after its Florida Arena was severely damaged last week. The league, originally scheduled to kick off in January 2024, is now expected to start in 2025.

TGL is a tech-infused league set to launch next year. The inaugural season was planned to feature six teams, each with four prominent golfers. They were scheduled to compete at the SoFi Center, a 250,000-square-foot arena under construction at Palm Beach State College in Florida.

Earlier this week, the SoFi Center's dome got deflated due to the failure of the temporary power system and backup systems used for construction. While there were no injuries or severe impact on technology, the air-supported dome was damaged.

On Monday, November 20, the TGL released an official statement on its website, announcing the one-year delay. According to the statement, even if the repairs were completed in a few months, it would still impact the schedules of players and broadcasters. Hence, it was deemed ideal to postpone the league by a year.

"This decision came after reviewing short-term solutions, potential construction timelines, player schedules, and the primetime sports television calendar," the statement read.

The statement further read that they have started updating the plans and timelines and are optimistic that the delay will only improve the delivery of the product.

Mike McCarley, TMRW Sports Co-Founder and CEO, mentioned that although they were disappointed with the delay, they were grateful that no one was injured. He added that they were thankful for the support from the athletes, Palm Beach State College and business partners.

McCarley said as per TGLGolf.com:

"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 at our preferred time on the sports calendar."

Tiger Woods expressed his confidence in the product and stated that he was excited for it given the momentum it had built over the past year.

"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," he said.

Rory McIlroy said that the league's delay brought mixed feelings. He added that while it was disappointing, it would allow them to regroup and refocus to come back stronger next year.