LPGA Rumors: Lexi Thompson Splits With 5-Year Sponsor; Tiger Woods’ Nike Alternative No Longer in Scene

The 2024 golf season has seen a wave of high-profile splits between golfers and their long-term sponsors.

Notably, Lexi Thompson, a prominent LPGA Tour player, recently ended her five-year partnership with Bridgestone, Tiger Woods’s Nike alternative. This move follows other major players like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson, who have also severed ties with Nike and Callaway, respectively. Bridgestone’s CEO expressed gratitude for the years of support and partnership with Lexi Thompson, marking a significant change for the 28-year-old golfer.

Lexi Thompson’s association with Bridgestone began in 2018, and she has been using Bridgestone balls since 2016. Interestingly, Tiger Woods also joined Bridgestone in 2016 after Nike’s exit from the golf equipment industry. The confirmation of both Thompson and Woods parting ways with their major sponsors in 2024 highlights a trend of golfers reevaluating their long-term partnerships in the sport.

Among the notable names leaving their sponsors, Jason Day initiated this trend by leaving Nike for Malbon Golf. Following suit, Tiger Woods concluded his nearly 30-year partnership with Nike, reportedly considering a relaunch of his Sunday Red brand under TaylorMade. With these high-profile exits, the landscape of golf sponsorships is undergoing a significant transformation in the 2024 season.

The trend of golfers parting ways with their long-term sponsors extends beyond Lexi Thompson and Tiger Woods. Phil Mickelson, after a 20-year association with Callaway, recently severed ties with the major sponsor. Additionally, Rickie Fowler decided to cut ties with Farmers Insurance. The growing list of players leaving their sponsors raises questions about potential future additions to this trend and invites speculation about which player might be the next to make such a significant move in the world of golf sponsorships.