TGL which is the highly anticipated golf league co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy has been receiving its fair share of hate and criticism from golf enthusiasts and viewers. Despite its promising concept, which combines virtual golf with live competition, TGL has failed to impress many with some even calling it a disappointment. The lack of competitiveness in matches, with some teams dominating others by wide margins, has been a major turn-off for viewers. Furthermore, the virtual golf format which was meant to be a unique selling point has been panned by some for being too gimmicky and lacking the authenticity of traditional golf.
Recently, The Drop Zone crew weighed in on TGL’s shortcomings and highlighted four major areas where the league could use some improvement. So, let’s see what they are, shall we?
1. Kevin Kisner not suited for TGL
As the host of the Drop Zone podcast put it, Kevin Kisner’s performance in TGL has been underwhelming, to say the least. “Kevin Kisner not suited for a Bomber’s league,” he bluntly stated. “He was throwing up ball speeds in like the high one 50s, which is is just not, you know, when you’ve got to carry the carry the water on the spear or whatever that hole is, that’s not going to get it done.”
As the host elaborated, Kisner’s struggles are a concern for TGL, which demands big hits and high-energy gameplay. Kisner’s lowball speeds and inconsistent performance have made it difficult for him to compete, and his team has suffered as a result. Despite this, there was one moment that had everyone in stitches. During his match, Kisner attempted to get out of a sandtrap but ended up skulling the ball, which whacked the flagpost on its way out. The shock of the mistake and the noise it made caused everyone on the playing field to burst out laughing. Even Kisner himself couldn’t help but crack a joke, saying “All I gotta say is I got it out of the bunker, unlike my partner.” It was a lighthearted moment that showed even in the midst of a tough match, golfers can still have a sense of humor.
Lack of Competitive matches for 2 consecutive weeks
The initial excitement and entertainment of TGL’s first round have given way to concerns about the league’s competitiveness. As the host noted, “Just the lack of competitive matches two weeks in, hopefully this is just a blip and it’s just, you know, two unlucky things combined with again, Kisner and, you know, maybe Tiger.” This lack of competitiveness was evident in the first round, with one team dominating the other, and the commentator pointed out that “His team was just not competitive, which brings me to my second issue.”
Furthermore, critics like Frankie Borrelli have argued that the format of TGL, with its emphasis on music, fake cheering, and booing, detracts from the competitive aspect of the game, making it feel more like a game show than a serious golf tournament. Borrelli suggested that the league needs to make the shots feel more meaningful, allowing the natural reactions of the crowd to shine through, rather than relying on manufactured noise and excitement. He believes that this would help to create a more authentic and competitive atmosphere, one that is more in line with traditional golf tournaments.
3. The simulator not working accurately
The second week of the TGL has been marred by technical issues, particularly with the simulator, which has left players and commentators questioning its accuracy. “The simulator, is the tech reliable enough? Is it accurately picking up spin rates on short shots?” one commentator wondered. Another issue arose when Tiger Woods hit a 100-yard wedge shot that sailed over 130 yards, prompting concerns about the simulator’s accuracy, especially with a “forward T that seemed like a potentially problematic” shot. The technical glitches have raised concerns about the league’s ability to deliver a fair and accurate competition. As Ron Green Jr. of GLOBAL GOLF POST noted, the league’s success will depend on its ability to make the game fun and engaging, but technical issues like these can’t be ignored.
4. Pros withdrawing from PGA Tour events
There’s a growing concern in the golf world as top players continue to withdraw from tournaments at an alarming rate. “Guys, finally challenge #4 is this odd thing where we’re starting to see guys withdraw from tournaments,” one observer noted. Xander Schauffele, for instance, played in an ATGL event and then withdrew from a couple of PGA Tour events, while Collin Morikawa pulled out of the Farmers Insurance Open. As one commentator put it, “I’m not saying these guys are injured because they were in the TGL. Just think that the schedule now comes pretty fast and furious.” However, it’s now been revealed that the reason behind these withdrawals isn’t fatigue or injury, but rather a change of venue for the Genesis Invitational. So, what are your thoughts on the problems faced by TGL? Let us know in the comment section below!
