Tiger Woods broke one of the most recognizable commercial partnerships in professional sports history on Monday when he announced the end of his 27-year association with Nike.
Ever since turning professional in August 1996, Woods has worn Nike swooshes from head to toe. 15 major tournament wins, 82 PGA Tour triumphs, and several comebacks from injuries and personal disappointments were all part of the alliance.
For more than 25 years, Woods' go-to Sunday uniform of a black hat, black slacks, and a red Nike shirt has come to represent men's professional golf.
The 48-year-old Woods did not specify which clothing labels he intended to wear at upcoming occasions in his statement. Since his comeback to competition in February 2021 following injuries sustained in a vehicle accident outside of Los Angeles, he has been using FootJoy golf shoes.
In his statement, Woods appeared to suggest that he will participate in the Genesis, a tournament he sponsors and proceeds from to support his foundation, at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, a neighborhood of Los Angeles, on February 15–18.
Following a record-breaking playing career at Stanford, Woods turned pro and earned endorsement contracts with Nike and Titleist. According to reports, the multiyear contract with Nike was worth $40 million, making it the highest endorsement deal ever for a professional athlete at the time.
Throughout his playing career, Woods' deal with Nike was extended three times. In 2013, he agreed to a $200 million 10-year contract extension with the clothing business, according to The Oregonian. He played using Nike golf clubs and balls up until 2016, when the Oregon-based business discontinued its golf line. Since then, he has switched to Bridgestone balls and TaylorMade clubs.