Troubled American car manufacturer, General Motors, announced that it is ending its sponsorship deal with the world's most recognisable athlete, Tiger Woods.
UK newspaper, The Guardian, reports that the deal between GM and Woods, said to be worth more than $10m (£6.6m) a year to the golfer, had endured for almost a decade and become one of the most visible sponsorship arrangements in sport, not least because Woods' golf bag had been transformed into an advertisement for Buick, one of the car manufacturer's brands.
As part of the deal, the world number one also took part in television commercials for the budget-priced range of cars - a source of mirth in some circles because Woods is reported to drive a Porsche. Ironically, during the nine years he has been promoting Buick its sale have reportedly fallen by 58 per cent - more than any other GM brand.
In a statement released to the press, Woods said:"I have enjoyed being a part of the company's dramatic product evolution. We've had a lot of fun together and I participated in some unique and rewarding activities. We've enjoyed a tremendous partnership over the years and we will maintain strong ties”.
