Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, through their venture TMRW Sports, are collaborating with the NFL to introduce a new flag football league in the United States, targeted to launch by 2028. This initiative aligns with the NFL’s efforts to grow the sport ahead of its inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympic Games and aims to create an engaging, safer alternative to traditional American football.
Background on TMRW Sports and Its Influential Backers
TMRW Sports, founded in 2022 by Woods, McIlroy, and media executive Mike McCarley, is known for creating innovative sports content, including the made-for-television golf league TGL which premiered last year. The company has also announced an upcoming women’s counterpart, WTGL, scheduled to start this year.
The venture benefits from high-profile investors such as John Henry of Fenway Sports Group—owners of Liverpool FC—Crystal Palace shareholder David Blitzer, Fanatics founder Michael Rubin, and former Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei. Celebrity supporters include athletes like Lewis Hamilton, Andy Murray, NBA stars Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Shaquille O’Neal, and entertainers Justin Bieber, DJ Khaled, and Justin Timberlake.
Understanding the NFL’s Flag Football League Concept
Flag football modifies traditional American football by replacing physical tackles with the removal of flags from players’ hips, reducing the risk of injury while maintaining the sport’s competitive nature. The NFL has committed $32 million to support the creation and growth of this league, focusing on its American debut before the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy commented on the project’s advancement, stating,
“We’ve made a tremendous amount of progress in one year, and the league is moving forward,”
and further added,
“We’ve been heartened by the immense interest in the marketplace, and the NFL is committed to investing in the infrastructure and partnerships to grow flag football globally and deliver a premier professional league.”
What This Means for the Future of Flag Football and Sports Entertainment
Although the NFL has not officially confirmed TMRW Sports as the league operator, reports suggest that Woods and McIlroy’s group remains a leading candidate following successful initiatives like last year’s Skins Game on Amazon Prime. This collaboration could significantly expand flag football’s appeal across the U.S. and internationally, blending star power with innovative sports presentation.
The partnership highlights the NFL’s strategic investment in diversifying football formats and engaging new audiences, potentially setting a precedent for future sports entertainment ventures. With the 2028 Olympics serving as a launchpad, this league could shape the trajectory of flag football and influence how the sport evolves on the global stage.
