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Tiger Woods and Nike Golf part ways
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Tiger Woods ends 27-Year stint with NIKE Golf: A historic split
After a staggering 27 years of partnership, Tiger Woods has officially called it quits with NIKE Golf, marking the end of one of the most lucrative collaborations in the brand's history.
Rumors come to fruition: Woods parts ways with NIKE Golf
While the split may come as a surprise to some, whispers of discord have been circulating for a while. Speculation gained traction during the 2022 Masters when Woods was spotted donning FootJoy shoes instead of his signature NIKE silhouette. Although he continued to sport NIKE apparel in recent years, the absence of the brand's clubs since their exit from the hard-goods business in 2016 hinted at an impending parting of ways.
Woods: A free agent in apparel as he eyes a return to competitive golf in 2024
As Woods gears up for a potentially more active role in competitive golf in 2024, the legendary golfer finds himself as an apparel free agent. This transition marks the end of an era that began in 1996 when Woods turned pro and signed his first multiyear contract with NIKE, reportedly worth $40 million—the most substantial endorsement deal in professional sports history at the time.
An iconic partnership and major milestones
The Woods-NIKE partnership etched its place in history, with Woods earning a reported $500 million over the span of their collaboration. From donning the iconic red NIKE shirt during the 1997 Masters to winning the 2000 U.S. Open using NIKE equipment, Woods became synonymous with the swoosh logo. His major victories, including six with NIKE clubs, stand as a testament to the impact of this iconic partnership.
Unanswered questions and NIKE's future in golf apparel
Woods' departure from NIKE, coupled with Jason Day's exit to join Malbon, raises uncertainties about NIKE's future in the golf apparel scene. The brand recently announced plans to cut $2 billion in costs over the next three years, a move that includes significant layoffs. The question of what Woods will be donning in his next chapter remains unanswered, leaving golf enthusiasts in anticipation.
Woods reflects: "There Will Certainly Be Another Chapter"
In his farewell statement, Woods expressed gratitude for his nearly three-decade association with NIKE, reminiscing about the countless moments and memories. Despite the parting, he hints at the possibility of another chapter in the future. As we bid farewell to the iconic TW brand under NIKE, the golf world awaits the unfolding of the next chapter in Tiger Woods' storied career.
