12 January 2024 , 22:01
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Just days after parting ways with one of their most recognisable athletes in Tiger Woods, Nike have linked up with Brooks Koepka and his LIV Golf team, Smash GC.
After 27 years, one golf's - and sport's - most iconic partnerships came to an end on Monday, after Woods ended his relationship with Nike. During his time as arguably golf's greatest ever player, Woods became synonymous with the iconic swoosh, having been sponsored by the brand since 2019.
Confirming the end of his Nike deal in a statement, the 82-time PGA Tour winner wrote: "Over 27 years ago, I was fortunate to start a partnership with one of the most iconic brands in the world.
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"The days since have been filled with so many amazing moments and memories, if I started naming them, I could go on forever. [Former Nike CEO] Phil Knight's passion and vision brought this Nike and Nike Golf partnership together and I want to personally thank him, along with the Nike employees and incredible athletes I have had the pleasure of working with along the way.
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"People will ask if there is another chapter. Yes, there will certainly be another chapter. See you in LA! Tiger." Just days after the loss of Woods though, the sports brand are already back in business having made the switch to LIV Golf to team up with Koepka.
On Thursday, a pair of custom made Nike golf shoes with the Smash GC logo were posted by LIV's official social media platform, raising eyebrows across the world of golf. Koepka has been a long-time Nike Golf ambassador, having continued to don the brand since joining the breakaway league in 2022.
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A number of his fellow LIV stars have opted to kit themselves out in their own team apparel, but for now Koepka has remained wearing the swoosh on his shirt and cap. Nike has been slowly pulling itself back in the world of golf, with the loss of Woods the latest chapter in the dial-down.
In 2016 the brand opted to stop its manufacturing of golf clubs, despite its equipment being used by the likes of Woods and Rory McIlroy on the PGA Tour. The change also ensured the brand stopped its production of golf balls and golf bags.
Since then the brand has continued to produce golf apparel, but the loss of both Woods and Jason Day at the beginning of 2024 has cast further doubt over the brand's future in the sport. As things stand both Koepka and McIlroy are continuing to wear the brand, as well as Tommy Fleetwood and LPGA Tour star Nelly Korda.