Tiger Woods: End of an era as Nike and Golf legend end 27-year partnership
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Tiger Woods and Nike have ended their 27-year partnership | Credit: Instagram(@Nike)

Tiger Woods: End of an era as Nike and Golf legend end 27-year partnership

David Ben 09:03 - 09.01.2024

Nike announced the conclusion of their long-standing partnership with legendary golfer Tiger Woods, which lasted for almost 30 years.

In a major announcement for the golfing world, Tiger Woods has officially parted ways with Nike after a remarkable partnership that lasted almost three decades.

 This move, confirmed by Woods on Monday, brings an era to a close and sparks curiosity about what lies ahead for both the renowned golfer and the iconic Swoosh brand.

Nike released a statement that read: “For over 27 years, we have had the honor to partner with Tiger Woods, one of the greatest athletes the world has ever seen," 

 "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 watched him set records, challenge conventional thinking and inspire generations of people around the globe. We are grateful to have been a part of it. We wish him the best in the future.”

Tiger Woods reflects on 27 Years with Nike

Tiger Woods Nike
Golf legend Tiger Woods is one of the richest athletes in the world in 2023 | Credit: IMAGO

Taking to social media, Tiger Woods expressed his gratitude to Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, for uniting them over 27 years ago when Woods turned pro. Woods shared his appreciation for the incredible moments and memories they've shared. 

Reflecting on the journey, Woods mentioned the countless amazing moments and memories that defined their longstanding partnership. 

Nike, in response, shared a photo on social media with the caption, "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 Financial Journey: Tiger Woods' Nike Deals Unveiled

Tiger Woods Nike
Tiger Woods | Credit: Instagram

Tiger Woods wasn't just a golf superstar; he was a business powerhouse too. 

Woods initially signed a groundbreaking five-year deal with Nike worth $40 million when he turned professional—a sum that was considered shocking at the time, except by Nike and his father, Earl Woods, who famously dismissed it as "chump change." 

Over the years, Woods went on to renew and negotiate subsequent deals, with his 2006 contract reported to be $160 million and his final deal in 2013 reaching a staggering $200 million. 

A testament to his global recognition, Woods not only became the face of Nike Golf but also launched his own "TW" brand, solidifying his status as one of the most famous athletes in modern history.

From Rookie to Legend: Tiger Woods' Impact on Golf

Tiger Woods Nike
Golf legend Tiger Woods has won 13 major championships so far in his career | Credit: IMAGO

Embarking on his professional golf journey in 1996 at the age of 20, Tiger Woods quickly rose to stardom. 

Winning three PGA Tour events and the 1997 Masters in his debut year, he dominated the sport in the early 2000s and is widely regarded as the greatest golfer of all time.

Woods held the world's top golf ranking for an unprecedented 545 weeks.

His legacy includes 13 major championships, and he is an esteemed inductee of the World Golf Hall of Fame. 

 As the Nike chapter concludes, the golfing community eagerly awaits the next chapter for both Tiger Woods and the iconic Swoosh brand.

Woods, 48, is set to compete in next month's Genesis Invitational in Los Angeles.

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