For the upper echelon of athletes in sports, endorsements have taken precedence over salaries and prize money. Athletes play an important role in connecting fans to businesses, whether through commercials, collaborations, or entire brands.
After decades of deals, athletes are beginning to reach billionaire status. According to Forbes, Michael Jordan was the first athlete to reach the billion-dollar mark in 2016, and LeBron James was the most recent to do so last week. Now it is Tiger Woods‘ turn.
To say Tiger Woods has had a lot of success in the golf world is an understatement. The 46-year-old has a long list of professional victories and awards, cementing his place as a key figure in the sport’s history. He is shone in more ways than just the color green.
Massive endorsement deals with Gatorade, TaylorMade, and, most notably, Nike are among the superstar’s endorsements. TGR Ventures, in addition to partnerships, has allowed Woods to explore his own business vision.
According to Forbes in 2008, Woods was on track to become a billionaire in 2011, but his progress was slowed by his divorce. Despite reportedly rejecting a nine-figure offer from LIV Golf, it is no surprise that he is finally joined the ranks of his Nike peers.
What does Woods have planned for the future? While he is unable to compete in this year’s US Open due to a leg injury, he has stated on Twitter that he plans to compete in the JP McManus Pro-Am next month.
