TGL Action: Boston’s Historic Win Over Los Angeles at SoFi Center
On a thrilling Friday night, the inaugural TGL action rolled into the SoFi Center in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where Boston Common Golf faced off against Los Angeles Golf Club. The atmosphere was electric as fans filled the venue, eager to witness a match where history was in the making.
Boston Common’s First Victory
After a challenging debut season in 2025, where Boston Common Golf went winless, the team was determined to start the 2026 season with a bang. In a nail-biting encounter, Boston secured its first-ever victory, defeating Los Angeles 7-5. The match showcased the resilience and talent of both teams, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.
Key Players on the Course
Boston’s roster featured stars like Rory McIlroy, Keegan Bradley, and newcomer Michael Thorbjornsen. Notably absent were seasoned players Adam Scott and Hideki Matsuyama. Los Angeles featured Justin Rose, Collin Morikawa, and Sahith Theegala, while Tommy Fleetwood remained on the sidelines.
A Rocky Start for Thorbjornsen
The match began with high stakes as Michael Thorbjornsen prepared for his TGL debut. Unfortunately, his first shot on Hole 1 landed him in a bunker—an unexpected twist for the rookie. Compounding the situation, his second shot also bounced back into the same bunker, allowing Los Angeles to secure an early 1-0 lead after Boston lost the hole.
McIlroy’s Heroics
Boston didn’t stay down for long, thanks to a brilliant 92-yard shot from McIlroy that landed just 9 feet from the hole. As Los Angeles struggled with a missed shot from Rose, Boston capitalized, tying the match at 1-1.
Theegala’s 70-Footer
As the match unfolded, Sahith Theegala delivered a stunning 70-foot chip-in shot on Hole 4, captivating the crowd and giving Los Angeles the momentum they needed. With the opportunity to double the points on the hole, Los Angeles threw the hammer, but Boston was relentless.
Thorbjornsen’s Redemption
In a moment of redemption, Thorbjornsen responded with grace on Hole 4, hitting a clutch putt that tightened the score, keeping Los Angeles’ lead to just 2-1. His comeback shot helped uplift Boston’s morale and set the stage for a riveting showdown.
A Turn of Tides
The competition intensified into the singles portion of the match, particularly as Thorbjornsen and Theegala faced off on Hole 12. The tension reached its peak when Thorbjornsen sunk a 17-foot putt, giving Boston Common a slim 6-5 lead and keeping Los Angeles on their toes.
Thorbjornsen Seals the Deal
In a climactic conclusion, Thorbjornsen, born and raised in Boston, had the opportunity to secure the victory for his hometown team. He stepped up to the challenge and expertly drilled a critical 15-footer, clinching a landmark 7-5 win for Boston Common. The crowd erupted in celebration, marking the team’s maiden triumph in TGL history.
Memorable Moments from the Match
Throughout the event, fans were treated to exhilarating highlights, including:
- McIlroy’s deft precision shots.
- Theegala’s impressive long-range chip-in.
- Thorbjornsen’s caliber under pressure, showcasing both determination and skill.
This matchup not only served as a landmark victory for Boston but also reignited the excitement surrounding TGL as a premier golf league. The blend of emerging talents and seasoned stars promises an exhilarating season ahead for fans and players alike.