It has been reported that Jason Day will sign a deal to wear Nike shoes, apparel and cap from as early as next week.
The long-time TaylorMade Adidas Golf staff player, and current world number one, will still use TaylorMade clubs.
If the reports he is set to sign a $10m-a-year deal with Nike are true, it signals the brand’s intent to be the leading footwear and apparel brand in golf.
With Tiger Woods unlikely to be a key player on major Sundays and Rory McIlroy going two years without a big win, Nike obviously wanted a player of Day’s star quality.
You would expect Day to be challenging for majors on a regular basis over the next few years and with Jordan Spieth tied up with Under Armour and Rickie Fowler flying the flag for Puma, it was a bit of a no-brainer.
It poses more questions about the future of Adidas – who own the TaylorMade brand – if they are allowing one of their prized assets to move to their biggest rival.
Adidas have already stated they are looking to sell their golf equipment arm which includes TaylorMade, Ashworth and Adams.
But, like Nike, the brand said they will continue to make golf shoes and clothing.
Some may question Adidas’ level of their commitment to golf but were they ever likely to match Nike’s alleged offer?
The timing does seem slightly strange though. You’d think any new deals would wait until after the Tour Championship.
If the reported deal does go though and Day is the last man standing in Atlanta wearing his new Nike gear it will be a massive coup for the brand. And will surely leave a bitter taste in the mouths of Adidas’ top brass.
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