On Monday, Tiger Woods, the golf icon, officially confirmed the widespread speculations about terminating his 27-year partnership with Nike. Since signing with the athletic footwear and apparel giant in 1996 at the age of 20, Woods is estimated to have received around $500 million, with Nike playing a significant role in his career’s highs and lows, encompassing 15 major tournament victories and 82 PGA Tour event wins. Despite these achievements, Woods is embarking on a new chapter by parting ways with Nike.
Expressing his sentiments, Woods stated on X, “I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world. The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories.” Nike reciprocated publicly on Instagram, saying, “It was a hell of a round, Tiger. … You challenged your competition, stereotypes, conventions, the old-school way of thinking. You challenged the entire institution of golf. You challenged us. And most of all, yourself. And for that challenge, we’re grateful.”
The red polo featured in Woods’ Instagram post became synonymous with his Sunday rounds, symbolizing the deeply ingrained brand relationship between Nike and the golf legend. Woods has not disclosed his future endorsement plans or when he will announce a decision, but he hinted, “See you in L.A.,” possibly referring to his participation in next month’s Genesis Invitational in Pacific Palisades, California. Since returning from ankle surgery in 2022, Woods has notably sported FootJoy shoes during golf tournaments. Despite entering the twilight of his professional career at 48, he now stands as one of the significant free agents in sports endorsements.
The Nike-Woods breakup coincides with the company’s recent announcement of plans to cut $2 billion in costs over the next three years, including staff reductions. Although Nike scaled back its involvement in golf, discontinuing equipment manufacturing in 2016, the brand maintains a presence in the sport, especially through its Jordan brand, producing items like shoes, gloves, hats, and shirts. Jason Day recently left Nike for the newer brand Malbon Golf, while Rory McIlroy remains part of Nike’s stable of top golfers.
