The golf legend began wearing Nike at the age of 20, and the firm has offered him with classic Sunday red ensembles as well as legendary ads.
However, suspicions of a possible split have gained traction in recent weeks, with allegations that Nike is intending to close down its golf branch entirely.
And now, in a statement posted on Monday morning, Woods has revealed that he is changing his mind.
‘Over 27 years ago, I was privileged to begin a connection with one of the most iconic businesses in the world,’ he wrote.
‘The days since have been filled with so many great experiences and memories that I could go on and on naming them.
Phil Knight’s enthusiasm and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf collaboration together, and I’d like to thank him personally, as well as the Nike staff and fantastic athletes I’ve had the pleasure of working with along the way.
‘People will wonder if there will be another chapter. There will undoubtedly be another chapter. “See you in LA!”
Since Woods’ amazing comeback last year from his horrific 2021 car collision, there have been rumblings that the golfer and the corporation may part ways.
Woods aroused eyebrows when he arrived at the Masters in April 2022 to make his comeback from the single-car accident that nearly cost him his leg, wearing FootJoy golf shoes instead of his regular Nike.
‘I have extremely restricted movement now,’ he remarked to the journalists about his footwear choice. With the rods, plates, and screws in my leg, I needed something new, something that would allow me to be more active.
‘Like golf fans across the world, we are pleased to have Tiger back on the course,’ Nike said in a press release.
‘He is a fantastic athlete, and it is incredible to see him return to the game at this level. His tale transcends sports and continues to inspire us all. We will work with him to satisfy his new needs as he begins his return.’
Woods wore FootJoys again this year at the Masters and at the Hero World Challenge last month, but it appears the schism is now extending beyond shoes.
However, contrary to popular belief, the relocation appears to be a corporate decision rather than a personal one.
Nike is reportedly considering shutting down its golf branch, according to No Laying Up. Nike discontinued manufacturing golf equipment in 2016 and has since just sold clothes.
Other brand ambassadors, including Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, and Brook Koepka, are all said to be leaving Nike.
Nike’s decision to close its golf division would mark the end of a 40-year run of producing golf apparel and equipment.
After Nike quit producing equipment, Woods switched to TaylorMade, which does offer a limited apparel section.
According to ESPN, Woods’ first contract with Nike in 1996 was reportedly for $40 million over five years, followed by an estimated $100 million pact signed in 2001 over another five years.
According to Forbes, he signed another eight-year contract in 2006 for an estimated $20-40 million per year, which was extended in 2013 for an undisclosed price. His current contract is thought to be around $200 million.
If they do separate, Woods will not be the first major athlete to leave Nike after a successful association.
In 2005, soccer great Lionel Messi switched from Nike to Adidas, and Kobe Bryant did the opposite, switching from Adidas to Nike.
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