Billy Horschel brought energy and laughs to the TGL stage in Atlanta last night, proving that golf can be more than just a game—it can be pure entertainment. The 38-year-old golfer stunned fans and fellow competitors when he entered the SoFi Center wearing a massive silver chain emblazoned with “Dirty Birds,” a tribute to the Atlanta Falcons, and performed the iconic “Dirty Bird” dance.
A nod to Atlanta history
The dance, which originated 27 years ago after the Falcons’ loss to the Denver Broncos, became legendary when wide receiver O.J. Santiago celebrated a win by shouting, “How about them Dirty Birds!” Horschel’s nostalgic tribute paid homage to that moment, blending sports history with his own unique flair.
While Horschel’s entrance received mixed reactions, Justin Thomas, a fellow TGL competitor, had a humorous take on the performance.
“I’d probably go back in time and not watch Billy do the ‘Dirty Bird’ dance if I could because I will never be able to get that out of my mind,” Thomas joked, as quoted by SB Nation.
Horschel, ever the entertainer, took the comments in stride, adding a dose of self-deprecating humor.
“Etched in there for life. As I said, it wasn’t going to be pretty. I was going to make a fool of myself. But it’s not the first time and won’t be the last time,” Horschel quipped.
TGL: Where golf meets entertainment
Horschel’s antics exemplify TGL’s mission to inject entertainment into golf. The innovative league, spearheaded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, aims to attract younger audiences and break from the traditional mold of the sport. With its dynamic format, high-energy atmosphere, and moments like Horschel’s dance, TGL is creating a fresh identity for golf.
What’s next for Horschel?
Horschel hinted that fans can expect more lighthearted moments in the future. His goal? To make golf a game that entertains as much as it challenges.
“I wish golf wasn’t just a simple game. I want it to have these comical, but at the same time great, moments,” Horschel said.
As TGL continues to grow, performances like Horschel’s ensure that golf remains a sport that not only respects tradition but also embraces innovation and fun.
