YouTube can take you down some interesting, time-consuming rabbit holes. During a recent research project, I came across some old commercials from Tiger Woods’ early days at Nike Golf — and the nostalgia washed over me. Chances are you’ve seen a few of them.
With so much time on our hands, now is as good a time as ever to take a few minutes and look back at 7 of Woods’ best Nike Golf ad spots, including a few when he was slinging golf clubs and balls before the Swoosh exited the hard-goods space in 2016.
7. The 2019 Masters
The commercial ran just moments after Woods’ final putt dropped to win the 2019 Masters. Considering the enormity of the moment, the video perfectly encapsulates Woods’ historic return to golf’s pinnacle. Funny enough, it’s one of several commercials on this list where Woods didn’t say a word — yet still left a lasting impact.
6. Synchronized golf
Synchronized golf with Tiger Woods? Hand over the signup sheet. Funny enough, I’ve actually played some of my best golf after watching the rhythmic swings of the game’s best at a tour stop. I think Nike was onto something here.
5. The good life
Back in 2008, Woods stepped away from the game to deal with a damaged ACL, along with a double stress fracture in his left tibia, following his emotional win at the 2008 U.S. Open. While on the shelf, Nike came up with this humorous commercial that took after “The Good Life” — better known as a world where Tiger Woods isn’t laying waste to the field every week. I’m not going to lie: the Anthony Kim cameo is bittersweet. Miss you, A.K.
4. Golf’s not hard
This commercial earns a spot on my list because I used to have this exact Nike Golf getup, Nike Air Zoom TW shoes included. Not to mention the late 90s Tiger swing was one of my absolute favorites. (Side note: the Air Zoom TW was arguably the least comfortable shoe ever constructed.)
