Justin Thomas to Make Competitive Return on TGL

Former PGA Tour champion to compete for Atlanta Drive GC in new tech-driven golf league

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Justin Thomas, the 16-time PGA Tour winner, is set to make his competitive return next week in the TGL, a new tech-driven golf league. Thomas, who underwent microdiscectomy surgery in November, will compete for the Atlanta Drive GC in a doubleheader match on Monday, marking his first live action since the Ryder Cup in September.

Why it matters

Thomas' return to competitive golf is highly anticipated, as he is one of the top players on the PGA Tour. His participation in the TGL, a new league that utilizes technology and innovative formats, will bring additional attention and interest to the emerging golf competition.

The details

Thomas announced his TGL comeback in a reply to a social media post from country singer Luke Bryan. The 32-year-old has been cleared for full golf activity after undergoing the procedure to address a disc issue that had caused 'nagging hip pain' for months. Thomas plans to return to the PGA Tour during the Florida swing, with the Cognizant Classic being his first potential event.

  • Thomas underwent microdiscectomy surgery in November 2025.
  • Thomas was cleared for full golf activity in February 2026.
  • Thomas will make his competitive return in the TGL on Monday, February 24, 2026.

The players

Justin Thomas

A 16-time winner on the PGA Tour, Thomas is one of the top golfers in the world and is making his competitive return after undergoing surgery to address a disc issue.

Atlanta Drive GC

One of the teams competing in the TGL, a new tech-driven golf league, which Thomas will represent in his comeback.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm looking to come back competitively at some point during the Florida swing. I know how important it is to get this injury behind me so that I'm only looking forward over the course of the season.”

— Justin Thomas (statenews.net)

What’s next

Thomas' performance in the TGL doubleheader on Monday will be closely watched, as it will provide an indication of his readiness to return to the PGA Tour. The Cognizant Classic, scheduled for February 26-March 1, will be his first potential event on the PGA Tour.

The takeaway

Justin Thomas' return to competitive golf through the TGL league showcases the growing importance of innovative formats and technologies in the sport. His successful comeback could pave the way for other top players to explore opportunities beyond the traditional PGA Tour schedule.