Tigers Woods has only committed to player around a dozen golf tournaments next season, but what does that mean for his contract with Nike?
Tiger Woods might be back on the golf course after a seven-month layoff but his plans for a limited schedule in 2024 could have a wider implication than just disappointing fans. The 15-time major championship finally returned to the tee box last week at his own Hero World Challenge tournament in the Bahamas. Woods could only finish 18th out of a select field of 20 competitors, but the fact that he could finish at all was a positive step in the right direction.
The 47-year-old played in the Masters at Augusta National in April, when he made the cut but had to withdraw before the third round began. That was his last tournament appearance.
After that, he would have ankle surgery, which prevented him from moving until this month. Woods disclosed that while his fused ankle is now pain-free, he still experiences niggles in other areas of his body.
Consequently, the previously impressive plans to participate in a drastically reduced schedule of about twelve tournaments the following year, essentially competing once a month. All four majors as well as iconic events like the Players’ Championship will undoubtedly be part of the condensed schedule.
However, the value of Woods’ long-term sponsorship agreement with Nike has been called into question given that he has already confirmed such a limited appearance schedule. The American has a ten-year contract with the international sports brand; however, it expires at the end of 2023, at which point it becomes eligible for renewal.
Tiger Woods may be returning to the game of golf after a seven-month hiatus, but his intentions to play fewer rounds in 2024 may have more consequences than just disappointing followers.
At his own Her World Challenge competition in the Bahamas last week, the 15-time major champion made his long-awaited comeback to the golf course. Even though Woods was one of only 20 competitors in the field, his finish was still a positive step in the right direction. He came in at number 18.
Furthermore, there are rumors that Nike may be prepared to end their collaboration with the biggest name in golf, according to the well-known golf podcast No Laying Up.
One commenter questioned, “I’m hearing some stuff, that the PNC (Championship) is allegedly his last tournament with Nike?” “Certainly,” a second person said.
“Whoa. We’ll see what transpires there, then. A few other Nike athletes have also experienced some similar things,” the first contributor continued.
While none of the podcasters felt comfortable enough to confirm a split, there are those who think it might actually be the case.
The Tiger Woods-focused social media account TW LEGION stated on X: “There have been rumors about Nike for a while now, so they’re not brand-new. In addition to the shoe issue, there are other indicators, like Tiger’s departure from Nike sunglasses.
There doesn’t seem to be any TW clothing in the initial ’24 catalogue either. Since the 10-year contract was up for renewal, it will be interesting to see what transpires.”
Even though Woods has had a ten-year contract with Nike, the venerable sportswear company has sponsored him for 27 years, starting in 1996. However, he hasn’t worn Nike-sponsored footwear since getting into a car accident in 2021.
Over his illustrious career, Woods is thought to have benefited from the long-standing partnership to the tune of nearly £400 million. But if the rumors about his first-ever swoosh turn out to be accurate, then his special appearance at the PNC Championship with son Charlie might be his last.
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