Tiger Woods and sportswear giant Nike have ended their commercial partnership after more than 27 years.
The 15-time major champion has used the brand’s products and equipment since he turned professional in 1996. Although he signed a club deal with TaylorMade in 2017 after Nike stopped making equipment, Woods continued to wear Nike shoes and Nike apparel.
“The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever,” Woods said on social media.
A statement from Nike said: “For over 27 years, we have had the honour to partner with Tiger Woods, one of the greatest athletes the world has ever seen. 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, 48, first signed a $40m five-year contract with Nike after turning professional as 20-year-old in 1996. The deal became one of the most lucrative partnerships in sports history as Woods dominated the world of golf for more than a decade to put him second on the list of men’s major champions, three behind leader Jack Nicklaus.
LOYAL SUPPORTER
Woods signed multiple deals with Nike over his career, including a 10-year contract in 2013 that was worth a reported $200m. Nike remained loyal to Woods during the up and downs of his career, including when scandal surrounding his private life emerged when he was at the peak of his golfing powers in 2009, and the golfer admitted being unfaithful to his then wife. Gillette, Accenture and AT&T all cut ties with Woods during that period, while Nike stood firm and offered him its full support.
On Tuesday, Woods thanked Phil Knight, the co-founder and former chief executive of Nike, for his “passion and vision”.
“People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will be certainly be another chapter,” added Woods, whose next on-course duties will see him host The Genesis Invitational at The Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles from February 15-18.