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McIlroy ends Titleist deal, could sign with Nike

ESPN staff
October 30, 2012
Rory McIlroy could join Tiger Woods at Nike © Getty Images
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Rory McIlroy could be in line for a multi-million pound sponsorship deal with Nike after the 23-year-old cut ties with his current supplier.

Acushnet, who have supplied McIlroy with Titleist and FootJoy gear since he turned professional five years ago, confirmed on Tuesday they would not extend their relationship beyond the end of the current season.

That leaves McIlroy as a free agent and clear to pursue a lucrative endorsement deal, with Nike reportedly leading the race for the world No. 1's signature - which would see them equipping the game's two biggest stars in McIlroy and Tiger Woods.

"Our goal has been to provide Rory with the best equipment and service that would help him be the best player he could possibly be," Acushnet chief executive Wally Uihlein said in a statement.

"He has been a great ambassador for the Titleist and FootJoy brands, and in turn, we are proud of how our equipment has contributed to his success. We wish Rory all the best, both personally and professionally, going forward."

"I will always appreciate the contribution Titleist has made in helping me become the player I am today," said McIlroy, who defeated Woods in an 18-hole exhibition in China on Monday.

McIlroy was spotted trying out one of Woods' Nike clubs at Jinsha Lake, leading to speculation that he could be poised to sign a deal worth as much as $20 million, although Nike were quick to quash the reports.

"We are declining comment on rumors and speculation," Nike spokeswoman Beth Gast said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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