Tiger Woods Announces End of Nike Partnership After 27 Years

Ahmad Austin Jr.Jan 8th, 2024, 1:23 pm
 
Tiger Woods

Brian Rothmuller/AP

Legendary golfer Tiger Woods announced on Monday that his partnership with Nike has officially come to an end after nearly three decades.

Woods began his partnership with the brand in 1996. Since then, he’s become synonymous with Nike in the same way fellow legends Serena Williams and Michael Jordan have. At this point in his career, it’s hard to imagine Woods not wearing Nike.

In that time, Woods also established a tradition that’s become part of his legend: the Sunday red. On the final day of golf tournaments, Woods wears a red Nike shirt with a black hat. Now, it’s unclear if he’ll continue that tradition with another brand.

“Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world,” Woods said in a statement. “The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever. Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together and I want to personally thank him, along with the Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along the way.

“People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA!”

In a statement of its own, Nike praised Woods for challenging “stereotypes, conventions,” and “the old school way of thinking.”

“Tiger, you challenged your competition, stereotypes, conventions, the old school way of thinking,” the statement said. “You challenged the entire institution of golf. You challenged us. And most of all, yourself. And for that challenge we’re grateful.”

Tags: