Nike first signed Tiger Woods as an endorsement contract back in 1996 when he was still an emerging golfing prodigy, reaping billions in sales through golf apparel bearing Nike’s trademark swoosh symbol and shoes bearing Woods’ image.
Nike even stood by Tiger Woods during his difficult personal issues, such as a disorganized divorce and extramarital affairs. Now however, their partnership has come to an end, even though Woods remains hopeful for his future success.
Over a quarter century
Tiger Woods began his professional golfing career in 1996 and Nike soon signed on as his sponsor – marking one of the greatest partnerships in sports history. Over a quarter century, Woods became one of golf’s most beloved figures while Nike saw billions in sales of equipment and apparel dedicated to him.
Nike stood by Tiger Woods throughout his illustrious golfing career despite scandal that rocked his private life, even after rivals such as Gillette and Accenture withdrew support. Nike even retained him on its roster of sponsored athletes despite other organizations withdrawing their support.
Now the two sides have officially confirmed they have part ways. Woods posted to social media thanking Nike co-founder Phil Knight for his “passion and vision” that brought them together as partners; also acknowledging his agent Mark Steinberg and other team members for their contribution. Woods will continue wearing Nike apparel and shoes but has since ditched Nike golf clubs in favor of TaylorMade clubs from TaylorMade Golf Company and Bridgestone balls; playing this week near Los Angeles at the Genesis Invitational tournament.
15 major championships and 82 PGA Tour victories
Tiger Woods began his partnership with Nike when he turned professional in 1996, winning 15 major championships and 82 PGA Tour victories while wearing their trademark swoosh apparel. Woods became widely recognized for wearing his iconic Sunday attire of red shirt, Nike hat and black pants during professional golf tournaments.
Nike stood by him even during the turbulent events surrounding his private life in 2009, including extramarital affairs and injuries which reduced his schedule. While other sponsors such as Gillette, Accenture and AT&T had dropped him, Nike continued paying him significant sums of money.
Tiger Woods thanked Nike co-founder Phil Knight for his “passion and vision” in creating Nike Golf, as it brought them together. Woods expressed his appreciation for wearing its logo proudly while continuing his playing career using TaylorMade clubs, Bridgestone balls, and FootJoy shoes from TaylorMade, Bridgestone, and FootJoy respectively. Williams Trading analyst Sam Poser suggests licensing out Nike’s golf equipment business (clubs, bags and balls) could still prove profitable for both companies involved.
Tiger Woods: “There will certainly be another chapter”
Nike has stood by Woods throughout his golfing career – which boasts 82 PGA Tour wins and 15 majors – remaining his partner despite other brands such as Gillette and Accenture severing their relationships due to his personal life scandals.
Woods issued a statement via social media: “For over 27 years, we began an incredible journey that introduced golf to millions more people and inspired millions to take up playing it themselves. It was truly a fantastic partnership and I am immensely proud of all we accomplished together.”
Tiger Woods concluded his statement by noting: “There will certainly be another chapter.” This could refer to his playing schedule; for example, Woods hosts the Genesis Invitational tournament held Feb 15-18th at Riviera Country Club near Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles (part of Los Angeles) which he hosts himself and benefits his foundation. Nike no longer produces golf clubs, bags or balls but still supplies players like Rory McIlroy and Brooks Koepka with footwear and clothes.
Final Words
Tiger Woods and Nike NKE -0.5% have shared one of the most legendary athlete-brand relationships in sports for 27 years, since his professional debut. After first signing with them when turning professional back in 1996, Woods continued wearing Nike brand attire throughout his career, winning 15 majors under this partnership estimated by Forbes at over $500 Million and becoming one of the most recognizable individuals on Earth.
On Monday, Woods expressed his appreciation to Nike cofounder Phil Knight for his passion and vision during their early relationship. Woods concluded his post with “See you in LA!,” suggesting he might compete at next month’s Genesis Invitational tournament held in Pacific Palisades.
Rumors of an impending split between Nike and Woods have been swirling for the last several weeks, after a No Laying Up podcast suggested this year’s PNC Championship might be his last time donning his signature red and black outfit. Woods quickly deflected questions about this possibility by answering that he “was still wearing their product,” when asked.
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