Tiger Woods and Nike part ways after 27 years

Golf legend Tiger Woods and sports apparel powerhouse Nike have officially concluded their iconic collaboration spanning more than 27 years.

Since turning professional in 1996, Woods, a 15-time major golf champion, has been an avid user and promoter of Nike’s products and equipment throughout his career – building one of the most revered and valuable athlete-sponsor relationships in sports history.

Reflecting on the partnership, Woods shared on social media, “The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever.”

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— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) January 8, 2024

Nike expressed its gratitude for having the opportunity to partner with “one of the greatest athletes the world has ever seen” and acknowledged Woods for reshaping the landscape of golf and transcending barriers in sports.

The sportswear giant stated in a message to the BBC, “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.”

“We are grateful to have been a part of it. We wish him the best in the future,” Nike added.

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Woods, now 48, initially signed a $40 million five-year contract with Nike upon turning professional at the age of 20. This partnership evolved into one of the most lucrative and enduring collaborations in sports, especially during Woods’ dominant era in golf, where he secured 15 majors and solidified his place as arguably the greatest golfer – and certainly one of the most decorated and high-profile athletes – of all time.

Acknowledging the significance of this long-standing association, Woods expressed his appreciation for partnering with Nike almost three decades ago. Nike stood by Woods during challenging times in his personal life, providing “full support” when other major brands severed ties in the wake of multiple scandals.

As Woods looks ahead to the next chapter, he thanked Phil Knight, co-founder, and former CEO of Nike, for his “passion and vision.”

Despite a limited schedule due to a leg injury sustained in a 2021 car crash, Woods remains optimistic about his future in golf, expressing confidence in his ability to compete and win on the PGA Tour. His followers eagerly anticipate his return to action at the upcoming Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles next month, marking the beginning of a new phase in his storied career.

Woods, who boasts record golf career earnings in excess of $157 million, claimed a memorable Masters Tournament triumph in 2019 – his first major title in 11 years – but has been plagued by injuries since.

Image credit: KA Sports Photos