Monday marked the end of Tiger Woods' 27-year association with Nike during which he won 15 Majors and 82 PGA Tour titles.
Rumours had been circulating for some time that the iconic duo were set to split following one of the most successful brand-athlete partnerships in history.
Announcing the split and what lies ahead next, Woods said: “People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter.”
He also added, “see you in LA”, suggesting his first appearance in non-Nike apparel would come at the Genesis International at the beginning of February.
Unsurprisingly for one of the biggest lures still in golf – despite his lack of playing time in recent years – no shortage of suitors have been linked to him.
Swiss brand On was one heavily linked to the American but insisted they were out of the running for a pairing with Woods.
Other companies being associated with Woods include Malbon Golf, the eponymous brand set up by Stephen and Erica Malbon back in 2017 and based in Los Angeles. Already on their books is former world No1 Jason Day.
Another names being suggested is Greyson Clothiers by virtue of the fact they have been reportedly in talks over a deal with Woods’ son Charlie, and Sketchers. Woods’ close friend Justin Thomas is already signed by the company.
Skechers, meanwhile, is an obvious possibility having already made a notable foray into the world of golf, sponsoring the likes of England’s Matt Fitzpatrick.
And it’s even been mooted that Woods might come out with his own line of golfing apparel.
As for the split with Nike, Woods was reportedly the one to walk away from signing a new deal with rumours suggesting he did not agree with their ongoing market value of him.
But Nike has also been winding down its golfing operation having stopped selling clubs, bags and balls in 2016 amid a drop in sales, instead focusing on golf clothing and shoes.
There is speculation that it could shut its golfing operation altogether, ending other lucrative partnerships with the likes of Rory McIlroy.
