Image Source: Robby Kalland
Key Takeaways
- The TGL is expanding into the women’s game with the launch of WTGL, a joint venture between the LPGA and TMRW Sports.
- WTGL will begin play in the 2026-27 season, featuring a unique format with mic’d up players and the signature Hammer.
- The league aims to provide a global stage for LPGA athletes, increasing their visibility and growth.
- WTGL will offer an alternative for stateside stars to play and compete in the United States during the winter season.
Introduction to WTGL
The TGL is expanding its reach into the women’s game with the announcement of WTGL, a joint venture between the LPGA and TMRW Sports, a company run by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. According to LPGA commissioner Craig Kessler, "Partnering with TMRW Sports on WTGL reflects our belief that innovation can help the game reach new fans and create greater visibility for LPGA athletes." The new league is set to begin play in the 2026-27 season, with details surrounding teams, investors, and players yet to be announced. WTGL will follow a similar format to the men’s TGL, with matches played at the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, featuring mic’d up players and the signature Hammer.
Enhancing the Profile of LPGA Players
WTGL is part of the LPGA’s efforts to enhance the profile of its star players, with Commissioner Kessler stating, "I’ve seen how new formats can engage audiences while showcasing both athlete personality and performance, and WTGL brings that spirit of innovation to the women’s game." The league aims to provide a global stage for LPGA athletes, increasing their visibility and growth. By offering a unique and engaging format, WTGL hopes to attract new fans and create a deeper connection between players and spectators. As Kessler noted, "It creates another global stage for our athletes—one that helps fans connect more deeply with them and continues to elevate the visibility and growth of women’s golf."
Alternative for Stateside Stars
WTGL will also provide an alternative for stateside stars to play and compete in the United States during the winter season. Currently, many top LPGA players from North America skip events in Asia, but with WTGL, they will have the opportunity to compete in a unique and exciting format in the United States. This move is expected to benefit both the players and the league, as it will increase the level of competition and attract more fans to the sport. As the LPGA continues to grow and evolve, WTGL is poised to play a significant role in its development, offering a fresh and innovative approach to the game.
Expansion and Growth
The men’s TGL is also set to expand in Year 3, with the addition of the Motor City Golf Club out of Detroit in 2027. This expansion demonstrates the growing popularity of the TGL format and its potential for growth and development. With the launch of WTGL, the LPGA is taking a significant step towards increasing its reach and appeal, and it will be interesting to see how the league develops in the coming years. As the golf world continues to evolve, it is clear that the TGL and WTGL will play a major role in shaping the future of the sport.
https://www.cbssports.com/golf/news/wtgl-lpga-tour-partnership-tgl-tmrw-sports-tiger-woods-rory-mcilroy/