There is a ton of space on the side displays and HUD to show shot data. GREG LOVETT / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Three Quick Changes to Improve TGL

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | Last updated Jan 8, 2025 3:06 PM ET

The first-ever TGL match saw the Bay Golf Club put a hurting to the New York Golf Club. The match gave us a unique look at a different future for professional golf. While there was plenty of excitement, there were also areas I felt they could change to improve the experience. Here are three relatively quick changes they can implement for the remainder of the season.

Increase Course Terrain Firmness Significantly

The biggest thing that stood out while watching was how the ball stuck in place. For us mortals that's a blessing, but for these guys it's a cakewalk. For the first match, they were playing it like it was a real course, accounting for roll and other factors. Without a huge increase in terrain firmness, it will get out of hand quickly. They will be able to attack every pin and have very little risk when firing shots around course hazards. It will be like playing Tiger Woods PGA Tour '08 on easy mode if they don't do something.

Show Shot Data

I'm sure they hope that TGL lures in all sorts of new fans, I imagine a majority of the people who turned in night one fall into the golf sicko crowd, like myself. These types of viewers would love to see the metrics on each shot like club/ball speed, launch angle, and spin. Seeing how incredible their numbers are would be an awesome visual on the screen. Since that is all being calculated by the launch monitor anyway, they need to find a way to visualize it.

Blind Holes and No Practice Rounds

The 14th Hole was a short par 3 between Matt Fitzpatrick and Wyndham Clark. After their tee shots, we could hear Clark tell Fitz effectively "The green is playing differently than in practice." As I mentioned above, these conditions are already way too easy. Not only does the ball stick, but their approach shots are coming from flat lies, regardless if it's fairway, rough, or sand. They also get to place the ball. They have to make it harder to lure in more fans and make it feel tense.

If the players are seeing a course/hole layout for the first time, it makes that shot clock feel all the more important. Which I believe will result in a more fun and competitive environment.

While I believe there is a real future for TGL, I think Rory, Tiger, and Co. have got some kinks to iron out. I hope they continue on a path of discovery and experimentation. Because frankly, when Scottie Scheffler finally joins TGL he's gonna eat these guys for breakfast.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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