TGL, the new tech-focused golf league which had been due to launch in January, will now debut in early 2025 after its purpose-built venue suffered damage last week.
On November 14, a failure of the temporary power system and backup systems used during construction caused the SoFi Center dome to deflate, which caused damage to the air-supported dome section of the site.
While there were no injuries, and most of the technology was not impacted, the decision has been taken to postpone the inaugural TGL season following discussions with key partners.
The SoFi Center is located on the campus of Palm Beach State College in Florida. Personal finance company SoFi was announced as the naming-rights sponsor of the facility last month as part of a multi-year deal that also included presenting sponsorship of the league itself.
TGL has been launched by TMRW Sports, the company founded by Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and sports executive Mike McCarley. TMRW Sports broke ground on the Palm Beach facility back in February.
The arena has been designed to bring the game of golf closer to fans, and there had been plans for TGL to combine some simulator golf with live action in front of crowds, with short game and putting taking place at the venue. SoFi Center spans nearly 250,000 square feet and will fit close to 2,000 fans on match nights.
The air-supported dome that covers the venue can reach a height of 75 feet, but the damage suffered by the structure last week has led to the postponement of TGL’s inaugural campaign.
The decision has been taken after reviewing short-term solutions, potential construction timelines, player schedules and the television calendar. ESPN had been due to broadcast the league.
McCarley said: “We are disappointed with the delay but thankful that no one was injured and grateful for the overwhelming support from our athletes, teams, Palm Beach State College and business partners. 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.”
Anthony Noto, chief executive of SoFi, added: “From our very first conversation, there’s been a natural alignment between TGL’s tech-forward approach with SoFi’s approach as an unconventional financial services solution. Though unfortunate, launching one year later in 2025 is the best long-term decision and we are confident that the magnitude of appeal and interest will only increase over these next months. We look forward to introducing the future of the sport come early 2025.”
Six teams based in Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Jupiter (Florida) have been confirmed to compete in the inaugural TGL season. Several of the world’s top-ranked golfers have signed up to play in the new league.
