Tiger Woods Ends Iconic Partnership with Nike
After over 27 years, Tiger Woods has announced that he is no longer a brand ambassador for Nike. However, he hinted at another endorsement deal on the horizon.
A Grateful Farewell
Reflecting on his long-standing partnership with Nike, Woods expressed his gratitude towards Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, and all the employees and athletes he had the pleasure of working with. He acknowledged the incredible moments and memories they created together.
pic.twitter.com/at0tSskmRm
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) January 8, 2024
Looking ahead, Woods assured his fans that there will be another chapter in his career.
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A Legendary Partnership
In 1996, Nike signed a five-year, $40 million deal with Woods when he turned pro at the age of 20. This marked the beginning of a legendary partnership that made Woods the face of golf. Throughout his career, Woods won numerous tournaments while sporting his iconic red Nike polo on Sundays. Nike even launched an apparel line featuring Woods’ logo and the Nike swoosh.
Although Nike discontinued its golf equipment line in 2016, Woods continued to wear Nike apparel while using TaylorMade clubs and Bridgestone balls.
Over the years, Woods signed multiple endorsement deals with Nike, including a reported 10-year agreement worth approximately $200 million in 2013.
Woods Joins the Ranks of Departing Nike Golfers
Woods’ departure from Nike is significant considering the brand’s association with golf and its reliance on Woods’ influence. However, he is not the only golfer to part ways with Nike recently. Jason Day, another notable golfer, has joined the up-and-coming brand Malbon. This shift has garnered attention, particularly for the unique fit of Day’s pants at The Sentry tournament.
Jason Day, go off pic.twitter.com/fDlHgWPSol
— Dylan Dethier (@dylan_dethier) January 5, 2024
Despite these changes, other notable Nike golf athletes like Scottie Scheffler and Tony Finau continue to wear Nike apparel. The implications of these shifts in endorsements are yet to be fully understood.
(Photo: Reinhold Matay / USA Today)