The TGL finally displayed its full entertainment value after Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy were involved in a closely-fought match at the SoFi Centre.
After the back-and-forth encounter finished 3-3, Kevin Kisner won the all-important nearest to the pin, which secured Jupiter Links GC’s first TGL win. Woods‘ team jumped up to fourth in the standings, while McIlroy’s Boston Common Golf are fifth.
Fans want closely-fought TGL matches, and the last two fixtures have certainly provided excitement right down to the wire.
What’s more, during Jupiter Links GC vs Boston Common, all the players recognised the importance of keeping the match entertaining. Kevin Kisner has proven a hit, while Woods and McIlroy have embraced the interactive nature of the TGL.
There was, however, one player on Monday evening who appeared ready-made for the tech-infused league.
Tom Kim is the perfect TGL player
Tom Kim, making his Jupiter Links debut, provided energy not yet seen in the simulator league.
The South Korean is one of the more passionate players on the PGA Tour, and his emotion was evident at the 2024 Presidents Cup.
And Kim’s enthusiasm was on show during his first TGL outing.
After nearly making the first-ever TGL hole-in-one on the 12th hole, Kim shouted, “Let’s go”, followed by numerous fist pumps.
On hole nine, Kim was heard saying, “Say it louder! What’d you say?” after he holed a clutch par putt. This is the competitive edge the TGL needs, and more players could undoubtedly learn a thing or two from the 22-year-old.
- READ MORE: Tiger Woods says Tom Kim has a skill which he would love to have and he finds it ‘inspiring’
Golf fans agree on Tom Kim after his first TGL match
Golf fans around the world also recognised that Kim might actually be made for the TGL format.
This fan wrote, “Tom Kim seems to have found something interesting at TGL with ESPN/ESPN+ content. It sounds exciting!”
Another added: “Tom was made for @TGL.”
“Tom Kim has made TGL THAT much better. Perfect for TV and super talented. The best combo,“ said this fan.
Kim and, to some extent, Billy Horschel last week set an example for those competing in the TGL.
Simply turning up and hitting golf balls into a simulator will not be enough. Personalities are required, and some players must improve their in-game entertainment levels if this league is to survive long-term.
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