Nov 23

Written by:
11/23/2008 

General Motors announced Monday that they would no longer be working with golf megastar Tiger Woods.  The announcement marked the end of a nine-year deal that had Woods pushing vehicles (mainly Buicks) around the world. 

GM cited the economy and the need to make cuts to stay alive for the split. 

Is this a bad thing?  Not for Tiger.  The world's most popular athlete now gets a little more time with his family, being free of the responsibilities that come with major endorsement deals.  He also has the freedom to take up the endorsement of another line of vehicles, if he so chooses.

I've always thought Tiger would look better in a convertible.

For GM, the deal is not as sweet.  For almost a decade, they've had the most recognizable face on the planet peering from behind the wheel of their vehicles.  Will GM sell fewer Buicks without Tiger?  Who knows, but the relationship could have only helped bring younger, upperclass buyers to GM dealerships.

Right now, though, General Motors is simply trying to stay alive.  Tiger Woods wasn't the only cut made by the automaker.  Hoping to stay out of bankruptcy, GM also announced that it would not advertise in the upcoming Super Bowl, but would continue to sponsor the NFL.

Will GM be the last major company to pull the plug on golf and sports sponsorships?  Probably not.  Thank goodness Tiger can still earn a few dollars by actually playing in tournaments.