Billy Horschel sank a 37-foot eagle putt on the final hole. It wasn’t just a stunning finish; it was a statement. In a game where every inch and every second counts, Horschel delivered a dramatic exclamation mark that sealed a 6-4 victory for Atlanta Drive GC over New York Golf Club, launching the reigning champions’ TGL title defense in sensational fashion.
A Changed Lineup, But the Same Grit
This wasn’t just a rematch; it was a continuation of a growing rivalry. Atlanta had taken down New York in last season’s SoFi Cup Finals, and despite fielding a very different lineup this time around, they showed the same poise under pressure. With marquee players like Justin Thomas, Patrick Cantlay, and Lucas Glover sidelined by injury, Atlanta’s roster looked vulnerable on paper. But Horschel, the lone returning player from last year’s winning squad, proved that experience and a clutch gene can’t be substituted.
High-Tech Format, High-Stakes Pressure
The TGL, created by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy’s TMRW Sports, brings a futuristic twist to team golf, blending virtual simulations with real-life shotmaking in a high-octane arena setting. But while the tech adds spectacle, it’s the human element, the pressure, the passion, the precision, that still drives the drama. That was on full display as both teams fought through 15 fast-paced holes.
Atlanta started strong in the alternate shot “triples” format, jumping to a 3-1 lead. The momentum continued early in singles, with Gotterup and Horschel helping stretch the lead to 4-1. But New York, hungry for revenge, clawed back. Cameron Young and Matt Fitzpatrick drained long birdie putts to tie the match at 4-4 with just one hole remaining.
Billy Horschel Had Ice in His Veins
That final hole, a par-five with the high-stakes “Hammer” activated, was primed for a heroic moment. Both teams reached the green in two, setting the stage. And then Horschel, from 37 feet out, rose to the moment. His eagle putt found the bottom of the cup. Schauffele’s attempt to answer came up short. Game over.
A new season. A new team. Same result. Atlanta Drive GC, behind the steady hands and fearless heart of Billy Horschel, proved once again that champions rise when it matters most.
