Lower than every week after the TGL’s SoFi Heart collapsed resulting from building malfunctions, the brand new league introduced it might start operations in 2025 as an alternative of in 2024.
That led Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, two of TGL’s co-founders, to precise their disappointment over the information.
“The postponement brings blended feels of disappointment and pleasure,” McIlroy stated in a assertion on Monday.
“Above all, we’re joyful that nobody was injured. We’re wanting ahead to the launch of TGL. Given the circumstances, whereas the delay is disappointing, the postponement will permit us to regroup, refocus and return stronger.”
The inaugural TGL season was set to start on Tuesday, Jan. 9, on ESPN—the day after school soccer’s nationwide championship recreation.
But, TGL, along with the PGA Tour and ESPN, determined to postpone operations for one entire calendar 12 months for a couple of causes.
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TGL, SoFi Heart
First, the brand new indoor golf league desires to cater to participant schedules. They didn’t need to launch throughout main championship season when skilled golfers dedicate most of their time to specializing in their recreation.
TGL deliberate on ending its inaugural season earlier than The Masters in April.
Second, ESPN wished to supply extra programming through the first quarter to complement its present common season protection of the NBA, NHL, and school basketball. In spite of everything, this league is catered for tv.
However ESPN should prioritize its dedication to airing NBA and NHL playoffs as soon as they start in mid-April. Playoff protection of those two leagues brings greater scores and, in flip, higher income for the community.
Moreover, ESPN airs first and second-round protection of The Masters and the PGA Championship. Due to this fact, the community must give attention to airing promos and filling industrial slots for the 12 months’s first two majors.
Thus, TGL wouldn’t have a spot within the weekly calendar if it started within the spring.
And at last, the injury to the SoFi Heart is taking longer to evaluate, and a further 12-month interval will permit all concerned ample time to make sure no additional incidents happen.
With all of those stipulations in thoughts, nevertheless, Woods nonetheless believes in the way forward for TGL.
“I’ve been a believer in TGL, and because the momentum has constructed this previous 12 months, I’m much more enthusiastic about what this may change into for followers of the sport all around the globe,” Woods stated in a press release.
“Though the occasions of final week will pressure us to make changes to our timelines, I’m absolutely assured that this idea might be dropped at life by our nice dedicated gamers.”
Jack Milko is a golf workers author for SB Nation’s Taking part in By way of. You possibly can comply with him on Twitter @jack_milko for extra golf protection. Remember to try @_PlayingThrough too.
