AJ McLean of Backstreet Boys and Joey Fatone of NSYNC (Image Source: Getty) In an amusing reminder of the spirit of friendly competition, two of the biggest boy bands of the late ’90s and early ’00s, for that matter, are swapping microphones for golf clubs. The Backstreet Boys are making pop nostalgia a competitive sporting event; now, they’ve formally challenged *NSYNC to a five-on-five golf match. The challenge was revealed amid some playful banter as Backstreet’s Brian Littrell and Nick Carter enjoy some time off from their current Las Vegas residency.
Backstreet Boys take the golf club, not the mic
Speaking casually, Littrell suggested it was time for a “Boy Band Mania Golf Tournament,” challenging *NSYNC. Carter immediately jumped in, reiterating, “Yeah, let’s go… we want NSYNC right now in a five-on-five.”
Backstreet Boys Challenge *NSYNC To Golf Match | TMZ Sports
Both groups dominated the charts in the late ’90s and were often seen as competing pop groups. This good-natured competition adds a playful, nostalgic touch to their relationship as fans mature and the members settle into more relaxed pastimes. Fans are already being sold on the premise of boy band members going head to head on a golf course.
Handicap showdown: who’s who on the greens
Brian Littrell presently has a 6.8 handicap, a strong number by amateur standards. Nick Carter has a 19 handicap, and while he isn’t quite as seasoned, he’s ready to do his part. Justin Timberlake, who is a regular on the golf scene and approaches single digits as well, would easily be regarded as a formidable opponent if *NSYNC takes him up on his offer.Also Read: 3 years late, but 30% work still left, Golf Course contractor blacklistedWhile the challenge is clearly in jest, it’s hard for fans on either side, who are already picturing their beloved pop stars out on the fairways and sand traps, not to feel tinges of excitement. Featuring the signature style and groove from each band member, this is so much more than a game; it’s an embodiment of their everlasting legacy.
A detour from tour duties, but the show goes on
Of course, the Backstreet Boys are still in it to win it with their music, even as they prepare for the special battle. Their Las Vegas residency has had a large audience, and even the likes of NBA star Luka Dončić have been seen gracing the stands.NSYNC has yet to accept the challenge, but either way, it has gotten fans talking again. A 2025 golf match among these iconic groups isn’t what fans were anticipating, but it might be the reunion that they didn’t know that they wanted. It is a fun throwback to be sure, with more than a few surprise birdies.
