Atlanta Drive GC made history by sweeping the best-of-three championship to become the first-ever TGL champions. But for Justin Thomas, the victory wasn’t quite as satisfying as it should have been. After a thrilling win in Match 1, Atlanta trailed 3-0 early in Match 2. That’s when they flipped the script. Using a calculated hammer strategy, they clawed their way back in singles. Two conceded points put them within striking distance before Billy Horschel delivered the moment of the night—a clutch, 18-foot double-breaker against Rickie Fowler.
His wild celebration, complete with a hat spike and putter toss, sent the SoFi Center into chaos as Atlanta took the lead for the first time with one hole to go. With the momentum in their favor, Patrick Cantlay sealed the deal against Cameron Young, locking in the 4-3 win and securing the TGL trophy for Atlanta. But while the champagne kept flowing, Justin Thomas had something else on his mind.
TGL is a completely new formula that beats conventional golf. This being the first season, it was rather difficult for the players to comprehend what came out of it. During the post-round presser, Justin Thomas was asked if he had fun playing golf at the SoFi Center. To that, he gave an affirmation. He added, “I think we probably sound like a broken record, just not knowing what to expect, not just us on Atlanta Drive but just all the teams didn’t know what to expect and how it would be.”
Needless to say, all the players did have an exceptional time playing the event.
Be it Tiger Woods laughing his heart out during the matches or the sudden hammer obstacles for the opponent. Taking to it, he added, “But yeah, it truly was a blast. It’s obviously easier probably for us to say that than others, but we filled in very nicely for each other. I think we had a lot of faith, and it’s just – it’s a lot different than what we do week to week and the grind of the TOUR.”
Justin Thomas expressed that he had always found the matches exciting and enjoyable, never leaving a round feeling otherwise. He shared his appreciation for concluding the season on a high note, celebrating the victory alongside his teammates while holding the trophy.
Yes, the match was fun. But the biggest question is, after having played for over three months, what exactly did the Atlanta GC take home after their win?
Prize Money share of Atlanta GC and NYGC
Atlanta Drive GC emerged as the first-ever TGL champions, thanks to a strong collective effort from Billy Horschel, Patrick Cantlay, Justin Thomas, and Lucas Glover. Led by Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, the team claimed the title and secured a $9 million prize for their season-long performance.
A key factor in their success was their strategic use of the point-multiplying hammer. Atlanta deployed it 13 times throughout the season, racking up 23 points—18 more than any other team. That exact tactic proved decisive in the final, where two crucial points pushed them over the finish line on Tuesday night.
Meanwhile, the New York Golf Club, featuring Rickie Fowler, Cameron Young, Xander Schauffele, and Matt Fitzpatrick, put up a valiant fight. After struggling mid-season, they surged back with three straight wins, including a major upset over top-seeded Los Angeles Golf Club in the semifinals.
Though they fell short in the final, they still walked away with $4.5 million in prize money, with each player taking home a seven-figure payout for their efforts.
With TGL’s first season in the books, the stage is set for even more excitement next year. Will Atlanta defend their title, or will another team rise to the occasion? Stay tuned to find out!
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