Tiger Woods and the divorce with a historic partner: he separated from Nike after 27 years

Tiger Woods announced this Monday the end of one of its most profitable partnerships. The American golfer, winner of 15 Majors, has ended his business relationship with Nike after 27 years of association, as communicated in a short message on social media, in which he indicated a “new chapter” for the future.

“27 years ago I was fortunate enough to begin a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world,” said Woods, personally thanking Phil Cavalierethe founder of the sportswear brand, for “his passion and vision” that made the relationship possible.

Woods, 48, concluded the statement by saying that “people are wondering if there will be a new chapter.”

“Yes, of course, there will be another chapter. See you in Los Angeles (Los Angeles)!”, Woods replied referring to the tournament. Genesis Invitationalwhich takes place in the American city in February.

For its part, the sports equipment giant, which began sponsoring the golfer when he was 21 years old, thanked in its account instagram Woods’ contribution to the company.

“Tiger, you challenged competition, stereotypes, conventions and outdated ways of thinking. You challenged the entire golf institution. You challenged us. And most of all, yourself. And for that challenge, we are grateful,” Nike said.

Woods, suffering from serious injuries, competed in only four tournaments in 2023.

The former world number one in his discipline suffered a serious road accident in 2021, which caused fractures to the tibia and fibula of his right leg, as well as injuries to the bones of his foot and ankle.

In April last year he underwent surgery for an ankle injury, which meant a further delay in his return to competition.

In November, Woods explained that his goal for 2024 is to compete in one tournament a month and that he had no plans to retire yet.

“What drives me is to compete. There will come a time, which hasn’t quite arrived yet, when I can’t win anymore. And when it comes, I will retire,” he said.