Rory McIlroy Signs With Nike For Reported $200 Million [Video]

Rory McIlroy is officially a Nike man.

Rumors about the world’s No.1 golfer heading to Nike have been swirling for months, and now it has finally been confirmed. The terms of the deal still aren’t known, but USA Today reports that McIlroy’s contract is worth between $200 and $250 million.

If the deal is worth $250 million, it will be the most lucrative endorsement in the history of golf.

McILroy, who will be wearing Nike for several years, said:

“I’ve always associated Nike with the best… Growing up, whether it was golf, tennis, football, the best athletes were with Nike. I’ve watched Tiger Woods make history with Nike, and Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal. Now I want to create my own history with Nike … Nike is a company and a brand that really resonates with me. It’s young. It’s athletic. It’s innovative. They are committed to being the best.”

McIlroy’s blockbuster endorsement with Nike was announced today in Abu Dhabi. McIlroy will be playing in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship this week and will most likely be paired up with another Nike player, Tiger Woods.

Nike has already released a Michael Jordan/Larry Bird-esque commercial starring Rory McIlroy and Tiger Woods.

CNN reports that McIlroy has been testing Nike’s golf clubs for the last year and should be able to make the transition from his Titleist equipment with ease.

McIlroy said:

“I was blown away by the research and development that went in, and I’m really excited about the equipment. I’m really confident in the equipment and excited to put it in play this week.”