Gillete Becomes 1st Major Sponsor To Phase Out Tiger Woods
Dec. 11 2009, Published 10:03 a.m. ET
Gillette will phase Tiger Woods out of its advertisements while he takes time off to repair his personal life. "As Tiger takes a break from the public eye, we will support his desire for privacy by limiting his role in our marketing programs," Gillette said Saturday. The announcement by the Procter & Gamble division marks the first major sponsor of the superstar athlete to distance itself from Woods.
Tiger Woods Announces Hiatus From Golf, Admits Cheating
The news comes a day after Woods announced an indefinite leave from golf and public life to repair his marriage. Woods has been embroiled in a public scandal for two weeks since a car accident exposed Woods' alleged marital infidelity.
Woods is the pitchman for brands ranging from AT&T to Accenture to Nike.
Nike, which built its $650 million golf business around Woods, said late Friday it supports his decision. AT&T said it is evaluating its relationship with Woods.
Woods will be phased out from Gillette's television and print advertising, and from public appearances.