Nike Responds to Tiger Woods Split With Nonchalant 7 Word Statement
“He’s not only basically the most talented player in the game, he’s also the hardest worker and he’s also the toughest mind,” Nike co-founder Phil Knight said in 2019. Though Nike and Tiger Woods share a deep bond, not all stories are meant to last forever, and this situation perfectly exemplifies that. Despite being a profitable alliance for decades, the duo could not sustain their connection. The split between the two appears to be emotional.
Nevertheless, both Nike and the golf great ensured a deserving tribute to their shared time. While Woods has marked the end of the story from his side, Nike also ensured that the end of this story with their long-time ally is as beautiful as the time they spent together! Through an Instagram post, Nike bid Woods a memorable goodbye with seven golden words: “It was a hell of a round, Tiger.”
Remembering all that Woods has contributed to their brand, Nike expressed gratitude filled with love and recognition for the star. The brand wrote, “Tiger, you challenged your competition, stereotypes, conventions, and 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.”
Indeed, their story together since its inception back in 1996, has been nothing less than a hell of a round! When Phil Knight found 20-year-old Woods, all he saw in him was determination and zeal!
The acknowledgment of Nike to Tiger Woods’s goodbye comes as heartfelt clarification to rounds of questioning that had been hinting at a possible ending between the duo. Both Tiger Woods and Nike have sealed the matter with utmost gratitude, and grace. Let’s find out how Tiger Woods said goodbye!
Woods has partnered with Nike his entire professional career, with their red polos present at all 15 of his major championships. The PGAT pro was the first one to announce the end of his contract with Nike, and he did so with an emotional, personalized touch.
He took a ride down memory lane and thanked everyone, including Nike employees and fellow athletes, whom he had been associated with through the years. Woods did not fail to make special mention of his bond with Phil Knight and express his gratitude towards him. Woods wrote, “Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world. The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories.
“Phil Knight’s passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together and I personally want to thank him, along with the other Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along the way. People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter.” Only time will tell what is next for Tiger Woods.
However, this amicable ending to the bond between him and his partner of decades was a much-needed ending to their story filled with highs and lows.
