Nobody knew what TGL would look like or what to expect.
But midway through the opening match between New York Golf Club and The Bay Golf Club, everyone is loving golf’s newest venture.
Unlike many PGA Tour and LPGA events, the pace of play has been fantastic. The remarkable technology has also worked wonders thus far. The conversations between ESPN’s Matt Barrie and each of the players have been both insightful and seamless. The “Green Zone,” which is an actual green accompanied by a short-game area, has produced plenty of drama, with none more significant than Wyndham Clark hammering in a putt to secure two points for The Bay on the third hole.
The 40-second shot clock is a terrific variable as well. It forces everything to move swiftly but also adds drama. Once the shot clock reaches 15 seconds, a heartbeat sound begins to play throughout the arena. It then gets louder as it ticks closer to zero. Imagine having that during a PGA Tour event? That would create some terrific theater — and tension — for fans and players alike.
Fans agree with these sentiments as well. Most of the posts on X have been positive thus far:
Great pace, great crowd, great vibes.
I’m ALL in on the @TGL
— Zachdubs (@Zachdubs) January 8, 2025
Fans love TGL’s unique holes, too. Some look realistic, while others look like they could be on Mars. Regardless, the 15 unique holes used within a match helps create an entertaining product:
Loving the @TGL so far!!
The crazy holes and the fact the green moves to adjust the slopes for different holes is really cool!
So far so good for this new concept
— Kiel Kauzlick (@KielKauzlick) January 8, 2025
Two holes in and I think I’m in love with @TGL!
I feel like it appeals to more than just golf fans. The hole designs are unique and not like normal holes. The shot clock makes things move much faster. Feels kind of like those dart tournaments. #TGL
— Craig Choate (@craigwchoate) January 8, 2025
The pace of play is quite popular:
This TGL thing is awesome. Quick as hell too
— PreZ (@PresidentPicks1) January 8, 2025
I was skeptical of TGL but with the speed and the graphics and the play, I’m all in on this.
— Jacob Stall (@superstall) January 8, 2025
@TGL is looking dope, already! Going to be great for the game.
— Rome (@JustDuncIt) January 8, 2025
Opening night for @TGL tuned in! Crazy what technology has brought to the game, golf is the greatest sport ever created. Loving being here for the new wave. Shoutout Old Tom Morris
— Hittin Greens (@Hittin_Greens) January 8, 2025
What do you make of TGL? Let us know in the comments below.
Jack Milko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. Follow him on X @jack_milko.
