Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy could face lengthy setback after dome collapse
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy's golf league, TGL is said to be "assessing its timelines" ahead of January's launch after the roof of their custom-made stadium collapsed this week.
On Wednesday footage of the league's home, the SoFi Center, showed the dome-like white roof had fallen through in a huge blow for the setup with less than two months until play is set to get underway. On Saturday, TGL bosses provided an update to CNBC, claiming: "We are still assessing the damage and determining the impact on our timelines."
As well as the roof collapse, the golf league formed by Woods - who announced his PGA Tour return on Saturday, McIlroy and Mike McCarley also revealed earlier this week that the SoFi Center stadium had suffered a power failure, which led to the deflation of the dome.
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"An overnight failure to the temporary power system used during the construction phase caused deflation and damage to the air-supported dome section of the site," a statement read. "At this time, while we assess the damage, it is too early to determine the impact on our timelines.
Bubba Watson shares details of horror knee injury ahead of LIV Golf debut"There were no injuries, and no technology was impacted. Other work on site is continuing." The stadium problem is the simulator-based league's second setback in as many weeks, after Masters champion Jon Rahm announced he had left the 24-man roster, leaving the setup hunting for a new signing with only weeks until the action begins.
Rahm mysteriously disappeared from the TGL website earlier this month, before the Spaniard's expected departure was announced less than 24 hours later. In a statement on social media, Rahm blamed his decision to leave on commitment issues.
"I am sad to confirm that I will not be participating in the first TGL season," the Spaniard said. "While I still think it’s a great opportunity, right now it would require a level of commitment that I can’t offer. Best of luck to everyone envolved and may the best team win!"
Elsewhere league founders McIlroy and Woods announced which teams they would be competing for, with the Northern Irishman committing to Boston Common alongside Keegan Bradley, Adam Scott and Tyrrell Hatton. Woods, meanwhile will represent his home town, competing for Jupiter Links.
The Jupiter-based setup was the last of the six teams to be announced, and they will have Woods included on their roster as a player-owner. “Through its use of technology, TGL is a modern twist of traditional golf and ultimately will make the sport I love more accessible,” Woods said.
“Having the opportunity to not only compete, but also own a team to represent Jupiter is an exciting next chapter for me. I expect Jupiter Links GC to showcase the golf culture of my hometown as we compete against the best players in the world."