Los Angeles, California – Tiger Woods, one of the most iconic figures in modern golf, has announced that he is parting ways with Nike as a brand ambassador. After a partnership that lasted for over 27 years, Woods expressed gratitude towards Nike founder Phil Knight and the incredible athletes he had the privilege of working with. However, he also hinted at a new endorsement deal on the horizon.
Woods made the statement: “People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter.” This remark, along with his announcement that he will be participating in the Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles next month, has sparked speculation that his apparel situation will be resolved by then.
The partnership between Woods and Nike began in 1996, when the company signed him to a five-year, $40 million deal. Woods quickly became the face of golf and donned the classic red Nike polo on Sundays while winning numerous tournaments. Nike eventually launched an apparel line that prominently featured their logo alongside Woods’ iconic TW logo.
In 2016, Nike made the decision to close its golf equipment line. Woods subsequently switched to TaylorMade clubs and Bridgestone balls but continued to wear Nike apparel. Throughout his career, Woods signed multiple endorsement deals with Nike, the most recent being a reported 10-year agreement worth around $200 million in 2013.
This departure from Nike marks a significant event in the golf apparel world, as the company owes much of its success in the industry to Woods. However, Woods is not the only golfer to have left Nike recently. Jason Day, another prominent golfer, has also switched apparel brands. The impact of these departures remains to be seen.
While Woods bids farewell to Nike, other notable Nike golf athletes like Scottie Scheffler and Tony Finau are still sporting the brand’s apparel. Rory McIlroy and Nelly Korda also continue to represent Nike as golf ambassadors. The implications of these brand shifts are uncertain at this time.
In conclusion, Tiger Woods has announced his departure as a Nike brand ambassador after a partnership that spanned over three decades. Woods expressed gratitude for his time with Nike and hinted at future endeavors. His departure, along with other recent brand shifts in the golf world, has left the industry in anticipation of what is to come.
(Note: The article is written in AP News Style and does not reference any news organization.)