Reuters
Golf – The Masters – Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia, U.S. – April 6, 2022 Tiger Woods of the U.S. walks down the 14th green during a practice round REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
Reuters
Golf – The Masters – Augusta National Golf Club – Augusta, Georgia, U.S. – April 6, 2022 Tiger Woods of the U.S. walks down the 14th green during a practice round REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
Tiger Woods has lived through one of the most storied golf careers of all time. In a career spanning over two decades, the 47-year-old has seen critical ups and downs, all of which have fed into his worldwide popularity.
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But at every juncture of Woods’ enthralling golf journey, one name has remained synonymous with him. American sports apparel giant Nike was a miniature of itself when it first signed the golf sensation back in 1996, an association that stands strong even today. But if anyone had any doubts over Woods’ confidence in Nike and vice-versa, a picture dating back to their initial meetings is further proof of their beliefs.
Rare Tiger Woods picture in Nike HQ appears in public view
Having made heads turn after his incredible rise to the top, a skinny and young Tiger Woods was at the end of an endless list of contracts. Many high-end conglomerates believed the golf sensation to be the next big thing in the sport, which allowed them to cough up huge eight-figure deals for him.
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In the end, the future legend signed a deal with Nike, a company who were making inroads into the sport back then. Despite only being 21, Woods was already a celebrity, which was further assessed after a recent picture of his time at the Nike Headquarters came to light.
Imago
March 29, 2009 – Orlando, Florida, USA – Tiger Woods and his caddie Steve Williams celebrate a shot on the 16th hole during the final round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at the Bay Hill Club and Lodge on March 29, 2009 in Orlando, Florida. ZUMA Press/ 2009 Arnold Palmer Invitational – ZUMAm63_
“Tiger propping up like he owns the place at Nike Headquarters in one of his first meetings ever with the company circa 96,” were the words accompanying the post. In the photo, the golf icon has his feet up during what can be presumed as a meeting, highlighting his exuberant confidence.
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Evidently, fans were delighted to get a blast from the past of their icon’s journey with Nike. “It’s cause he does own them,” a user proudly said. “When you that good,” said another.
How much has Tiger Woods earned through his Nike contract over the years?
Despite his casual nature in the age-old photo, Woods did something right during his earliest contract negotiations. Despite being a baby in terms of pro golf experience, Nike agreed to an eye-watering $40 million deal over a five-year period.
The amount was considered enormous for a newbie, but Woods quickly put a foothold in the golf world with his extraordinary performances. Impressively, Nike was willing to sign another lucrative deal after the end of five years, which was reportedly worth $100 million.
The highly-successful partnership has been extended at various junctures since, with contract fees on the rise. But with Woods in the twilight of his career, will Nike oblige for another huge splurge on one of their most loyal members? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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Written by
Edited by
Abdul Bari Khan