After nearly three decades of partnership, Tiger Woods has announced the end of his long-standing relationship with Nike. The golf icon, who first joined forces with the brand at the age of 20 upon turning professional, has been synonymous with Nike apparel throughout his illustrious career.
Woods’ initial contract with Nike, signed in 1996, was valued at $40 million over five years. This association continued to flourish, culminating in a substantial ten-year agreement in 2013, reportedly worth $200 million.
Despite this split, Woods’ influence on the sport remains undiminished. He recently made a comeback to competitive golf at the Hero World Challenge after recovering from injuries.
Looking ahead, Woods hinted at his participation in the upcoming Genesis Invitational, set to take place from February 15-18 at the Riviera Country Club, as indicated by his parting words, “See you in LA!” This statement not only confirms his intention to compete but also marks a new chapter in his career post-Nike.
“Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world,” Woods wrote on X, formerly Twitter. “The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever.”
Nike reciprocated with a tribute to Woods, acknowledging how he revolutionised the game, challenged norms, and inspired both the company and the sport’s enthusiasts. They celebrated the journey with a post that read, “It was a hell of a round, Tiger,” alongside an image capturing one of Woods’ signature celebratory fist pumps, clad in his iconic red shirt emblazoned with the Nike Swoosh.
“Throughout the course of our partnership, we have witnessed, along with the rest of the world, how Tiger not only redefined the sport of golf, but broke barriers for all of sport,” Nike said in a statement.
“We watched him set records, challenge conventional thinking and inspire generations of people around the globe. We are grateful to have been a part of it. We wish him the best in the future.”
Woods praised the “passion and vision” of Nike’s former chairman Phil Knight, “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 Woods, once synonymous with Nike’s golf clothing and footwear, made a notable shift during the 2022 Masters Tournament when he opted for FootJoy shoes over his signature Nike line. This decision was driven by Woods’ need for enhanced stability following a severe car accident in February 2021 that left him with significant leg injuries.
In response to this change, Nike expressed its commitment to supporting Woods by adapting to his evolving requirements as he made his way back into the sport.
The Australian golfer, previously ranked number one in the world, was drawn to Malbon’s growing popularity and its appeal to a fashion-conscious and diverse audience. Malbon Golf, established in 2017, has been making waves as a luxury brand in the golfing world.
