The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am has turned out to be one of the most awaited events of the Tour this season. Not only is the prize money alluring to the golfers but also the event sees a host of big names featuring for the first time in the PGA Tour circuit this season. While Rory McIlroy is coming in after featuring in the DP World Tour and the TGL earlier this month, Scottie Scheffler and Jordan Spieth are making a comeback from their respective injuries.
Spieth in particular has been sidelined for a long time, and his last appearance on the circuit was the FedEx St. Jude Championship in August 2024. And understandably so, Spieth was asked a few challenging questions regarding changes that seem inevitable in the PGA Tour and how it is faring now with respect to easy-to-consume products like the TGL.
Jordan Spieth’s thoughts on the evolving PGA Tour product
The PGA Tour has not been ideal. Ever since there have been calls for refining the golf at display, the organization has gotten to work, pooling ideas and starting conversations. The advent of more fan-friendly products like LIV Golf and the TGL has accelerated the process. It is safe to assume that certain changes are going to be made soon. “I think from my understanding is the Tour is trying to do a lot of polling to the fans and also a lot of conversations with networks. Obviously linear television’s changed from the last time a deal was done so the next time anything can happen.” Spieth told the media ahead of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
The three-time Major winner also acknowledges that change is necessary and inevitable. He added, “Trying to figure out what’s the best product that we can put forward, whether it’s on the course here or it’s through other — different things like TGL and how do you reach a different audience.”
However, he also reiterates that going away from the core of what golf has to offer and making it only about entertainment could alienate some of the longtime viewers of the sport. While some people can take a quick liking to the fast-paced action TGL offers, others would prefer classic golf and the mind-bending challenges that come with it. According to Spieth, the goal would be to find a product that helps in meeting both sides halfway. “Some people who love this product may not take into watching TGL. I’ve talked to others who love TGL that may not tune in on Saturdays and Sundays to a PGA TOUR round. I think just broadening that to kind of bridge the gap and invite some new fans in.”
The fact that the PGA Tour is asking questions and the right kind of questions is a huge positive. That shows that the organization is willing to admit that changes are needed within the system. That is a good first step, according to Spieth. “My understanding is they’re doing the right things as far as who they’re talking to, how they’re figuring it out. Then open to adjusting, you know?”
Jun 13, 2024; Pinehurst, North Carolina, USA; Jordan Spieth reacts after putting on the first green during the first round of the U.S. Open golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports1
Spieth had only positive things to say about the tech-based innovative league. The Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy-led establishment has given the world of golf something new and it looks highly likely to stay. “Seems like guys that have wanted to do TGL are loving it, they’re loving playing in it. They say it’s very different but it’s also super fun. Maybe it should have been done sooner.”
Spieth is one of the many notable names that are not part of the first edition of the six-team TGL. However, given his injury in August 2024 and subsequent surgery, it is understandable why he was excluded. Given his friendship with Justin Thomas, it is not farfetched to assume that he might feature in the next edition.
Notable exclusions from TGL 2025 season
Before his freak injury while making Christmas dinner, Scottie Scheffler was asked whether he would like to compete in TGL. However, he turned down the opportunity and has not made the reason for it public. The most likely answer would be that he lives in Texas. Juggling the travel to Florida, where the TGL is taking place, and PGA Tour commitments seem to be on the difficult side.
“I think it’s interesting. I think it’s good energy for the sport. I think maybe some new people are getting interested in golf. But overall I haven’t really paid too much attention to it, but last night was good,” Scheffler expressed his thoughts on the TGL after catching a bit of the Game 4 between Tiger Woods’ Jupiter Links Golf Club and Rory McIlroy’s Boston Common Golf.
Tony Finau, who resides in Arizona, is another golfer who opted out due to the increased pressure on schedule. With PGA Tour tournaments almost every week and family commitments, Finau decided to stay out of this year’s edition of TGL. Robert MacIntyre, who struggled to live in the US and moved back to Scotland, is another big omission.
Either way, the success of TGL has forced the PGA Tour to consider bringing about changes necessary and inevitable.
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