Tiger Woods Ends Iconic 27-Year Partnership with Nike, Teases New Endorsement Deal

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Golf superstar Tiger Woods announced on Monday that he has ended his long-standing partnership with Nike, marking the end of one of the most iconic athlete-brand relationships in history. Woods, who has exclusively worn Nike throughout his professional golfing career, revealed that he is no longer a Nike brand ambassador, but hinted at a forthcoming endorsement deal. The golfer’s association with Nike has been instrumental in the development of the company’s presence in golf over the past 27 years. Woods’ influence extended beyond the golf course, having become the face of the sport while wearing his signature red Nike polo on Sundays.

During his storied career, Woods signed multiple contracts with Nike, including a reported 10-year deal worth around $200 million in 2013. The partnership between Nike and Woods resulted in numerous memorable moments, with Nike estimated to have earned $22.5 million in brand exposure during Woods’ victorious final round of the 2019 Masters, according to Reuters.

The departure of Woods from Nike also raises questions about the company’s future relationship with golf. Despite Woods’ exit, several other respected PGA Tour golfers, such as Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, and Scottie Scheffler, continue to wear Nike apparel. This move follows other recent high-profile departures from Nike’s golf division, including Jason Day’s transition to the up-and-coming brand, Malbon. In 2016, Nike ceased its equipment line, causing Woods to switch to TaylorMade clubs and Bridgestone balls.

One of the most defining moments of the Woods-Nike partnership came in 2005, during the final round of the Masters. Woods executed a remarkable chip shot that rolled down a slope and paused at the edge of the hole before dropping in, eliciting a trademark fist pump from the golfer. The TV broadcast repeatedly displayed the Nike swoosh as the highlight played, providing the company with approximately $1 million worth of free publicity.

Woods’ 2019 Masters victory stands as a significant triumph in his career, as it marked his first major win since 2008. Following his triumph, Nike aired a new advertisement showcasing various career moments of Woods, emphasizing their enduring partnership.

The end of Woods’ association with Nike showcases the lasting impact he has had on the sport and the brand. As the golfer moves on to a new endorsement deal, it remains to be seen how Nike will navigate its future in golf.