PACIFIC PALISADES, CA — Speculations surrounding Tiger Woods' long-term association with Nike were confirmed on Monday when the 15-time major champion officially announced the termination of his 27-year relationship with the iconic brand.
Taking to social media, Woods expressed gratitude to Nike founder Phil Knight for their enduring partnership. "Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world. The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories," Woods wrote. "Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together, and I want to personally thank him, along with the Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along the way. People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA!"
Tiger Fist Pump!
Credit: (Nike Instagram)
Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together, and I want to personally thank him, along with the Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along the way...Yes, there will certainly be another chapter.
-Tiger
Tiger Woods Reading Green and Decked out in Nike Gear
Credit:Pinterest, BroBible)
Woods, the tournament host of the upcoming Genesis Invitational scheduled for Feb. 15-18 at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, announced his desire to compete aligning with his plan to play one event per month.
The golf icon became a brand ambassador for Nike in 1996 at the age of 20, signing a five-year, $40 million deal with Knight after turning pro following his third consecutive win at the U.S. Amateur. Knight's early endorsement of Woods projected high expectations for his impact on the sport. Knight once commented, "The world has not seen anything like what he’s going to do for the sport. It’s almost art. I wasn’t alive to see Claude Monet paint, but I am alive to see Tiger play, and that’s pretty great."
Woods' association with Nike Golf significantly contributed to the brand's prominence in apparel, particularly with its spikeless footwear gaining popularity. However, Nike's equipment division ceased club and ball production in 2016. In recent years, Woods has used TaylorMade clubs and Bridgestone golf balls while also sporting golf shoes made by FootJoy for nearly two years.
TaylorMade, now separated from Adidas, hinted on its website about an increased focus on apparel starting next year. Notably, several club endorsers like Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler continue to sport Nike Golf clothing during their games. However, Jason Day transitioned to new gear from Malbon at the start of the year, departing from Nike.
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