Golf legend Tiger Woods declared the conclusion of his historic 27-year association with Nike in a statement shared on social media on Monday afternoon.
This separation marks the conclusion of the most lucrative business collaboration in history between an athlete and a sponsor.
End of an era. https://t.co/8VtoIjwkp6
— Breitbart News (@BreitbartNews) January 8, 2024
In the late 1990s, Nike, recognized as a gold-standard sports apparel company, gained prominence through partnerships with high-profile athletes like Michael Jordan.
Their golf division initially lagged behind competitors until Woods entered the scene. His association with Nike significantly elevated the popularity of the Nike golf brand, proving to be a lucrative venture for both Woods and Nike Co-Founder Phil Knight.
Woods' achievements on the golf course, including 15 major championships while adorned in Nike apparel during victories, solidified his image as synonymous with Nike, similar to Michael Jordan.
A shift in Woods' fortunes prompted a reevaluation of his ties with his primary sponsor.
In 2016, Nike discontinued its production of golf equipment following Woods' multiple serious injuries that sidelined him.
Facing setbacks both on and off the golf course, Woods has participated in only 13 events in the past four years, securing three PGA wins over the last decade.
Reflecting on the partnership, Woods expressed gratitude for the journey that began over two decades ago, stating, "Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world."
He acknowledged the numerous remarkable moments and memories created during this period, extending his thanks to Nike Co-Founder Phil Knight, Nike employees and the exceptional athletes he collaborated with over the years.
As speculation arises about what comes next, Woods assured, "Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA!"
Nike also confirmed Woods' departure in an Instagram post, recognizing his transformative impact on golf and expressing gratitude for the challenges he posed to conventions and norms within the sport.
‘Tiger, you challenged your competition, stereotypes, conventions, the old school way of thinking," the post read. "You challenged the entire institution of golf. You challenged us. And most of all, yourself. And for that challenge we’re grateful."
Despite Woods' prime playing days being behind him, he is not stepping away from the scene entirely. He intends to continue competitive play and is reportedly gearing up to launch a new apparel line in the near future.
