What’s Working and What’s Next for Golf’s Indoor Simulator League

The innovative league has sparked interest—and a few growing pains.

It’s hard to believe, but we’re over three months into TGL, the indoor simulator league that has brought golf into prime time with a mix of high-tech innovation and star power. Co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, TGL has captured the attention of both golf enthusiasts and casual sports fans, thanks to its unique format, ESPN broadcasts, and a roster of top players. But as the league wraps up its first regular season, the question remains: Is TGL a success? And what’s next for this bold experiment in golf entertainment?

What’s Working?

1. Prime-Time Appeal
   The Monday and Tuesday night time slots have proven to be a hit, offering fans a midweek golf fix during the offseason. The shorter, fast-paced matches are perfect for casual viewers, and the mic’d-up players provide a level of access and personality rarely seen in traditional tournaments.
2. Player Engagement
   While TGL isn’t as high-stakes as a major championship, the players have embraced the competitive yet lighthearted atmosphere. Collin Morikawa, known for his reserved demeanor, was seen celebrating wildly during a recent comeback win. Justin Thomas, Billy Horschel, and others have leaned into their roles as entertainers, trash-talking and trolling their way through matches.
3. The Hammer Rule
   A recent addition to the format, the hammer rule has kept matches competitive by allowing trailing teams to double their points on a hole. This has led to more dramatic comebacks and heightened excitement, especially in close matches.

What’s Not Working?

1. Simulator Accuracy
   The biggest issue facing TGL is the reliability of the FullSwing simulator technology. Players have expressed frustration with inconsistent ball flight readings, and even Hideki Matsuyama—known for his stoic demeanor—has been visibly perplexed by the results.
2. Broadcast Challenges
   The ESPN broadcast has struggled to find its footing, oscillating between treating TGL as a serious competition and a lighthearted exhibition. Analysts like Marty Smith have been criticized for disrupting the flow of the matches, and the production often fails to highlight the league’s most entertaining moments.

What’s Next for TGL?

As TGL looks ahead to a potential second season in 2026, there are plenty of opportunities to refine and expand the product. Here’s what fans and analysts are hoping to see:

1. New Faces
   Adding young stars like Luke Clanton, Akshay Bhatia, and Nick Dunlap could inject fresh energy into the league. LPGA players like Nelly Korda and Charley Hull have also been suggested as natural fits for the format.
2. LIV Integration
   Bringing in LIV Golf players like Bryson DeChambeau or Cameron Smith could add a new layer of intrigue and fan engagement. DeChambeau, in particular, is known for his charisma and ability to connect with audiences.
3. Roster Adjustments
   While some players have thrived in the TGL environment, others—like Patrick Cantlay, Lucas Glover, and Cameron Young—have struggled to embrace the league’s entertainment-focused vibe. Replacing them with more dynamic personalities could elevate the product.

The Verdict

TGL has undoubtedly made an impact in its debut season, offering a fresh take on golf that appeals to both die-hard fans and casual viewers. While there are kinks to iron out—particularly with the simulator technology and broadcast—the league has laid a strong foundation for growth.

As the regular season winds down, one thing is clear: TGL is here to stay, and its future looks brighter than ever.

Your Turn: What Do You Think?

At Better Golf Academy, we’re always excited to see innovation in golf. What’s your take on TGL? Are you tuning in on Monday nights? Who would you like to see join the league in 2026? Let us know in the comments!