Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

In early December, it appeared that Tiger Woods was approaching the end of his deal with Nike. Speculation ramped up when Charlie Woods signed with Greyson within hours of Tiger's Nike deal expiring. It seemed that Tiger may be attempting to start a new chapter at this point in his career. After weeks of speculation with no new updates, Tiger gave a clear-cut answer on Monday when he took to X to formally announce that he and Nike have parted ways after 27 years of sponsorship.

Writing Was on the Wall

While the split is now official, it wasn't an entirely shocking revelation. Tiger didn't sport his typical Nike brands and apparel at tournaments or off the course over the past few weeks.

He seemed much more relaxed and down to earth, and it looked like he was just enjoying being a dad, especially at the PNC with Charlie playing and Samantha Woods accompanying him around the course. It was an overall different version of Tiger that golf fans aren't accustomed to.

Tiger gave off the impression that he's trying to change things up and embrace this next chapter of his career as it begins.

What's On Tap Next?

In his announcement, Tiger Woods hinted at a new chapter beginning, playing off the idea that the back nine of his career has begun. I wouldn't expect an immediate decision regarding his future branding to follow, but it wouldn't be surprising if he already has something in the works.

At Christmas time, Tiger appeared in several promotional videos for TaylorMade as he brought back the infamous "Mac Daddy Santa" with the likes of Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Scottie Scheffler, and others as his elves. TaylorMade seems like a natural fit, as the company can produce a whole "Tiger" line of equipment, not just apparel. Nike ended its production of golf equipment almost a decade ago to focus solely on apparel.

The golf world can only wait and see what Tiger does next, but we know for certain that the Nike chapter of his career has concluded.

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