In light of the sex scandal, AT&T and Gillette are “limiting” their use of Tiger Woods in ads for the foreseeable future.
From the New York Daily News article:
“Tiger Woods is facing an ugly split after a long and happy relationship – with his sponsors.
Corporate giants AT&T and Gillette distanced themselves Saturday from the world’s best-known golfer/philanderer, raising questions about Woods’ multimillion-dollar advertising appeal.
Gillette announced it will cut back on Woods’ marketing role as the golfer focuses on his home 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,” said a statement from Gillette.
The company once featured Woods plugging their razors with fellow sporting superstars Derek Jeter and Roger Federer.
AT&T, which signed a deal with Woods earlier this year to put its logo on his golf bag, is reconsidering its ties to the 33-year-old mega-star after his admission of marital infidelity.
After Woods announced Friday that he was indefinitely abandoning golf in the wake of his woes, AT&T issued a statement offering their backing – to a point.
“We support Tiger’s decision and our thoughts will be with him and his family,” said AT&T spokeswoman Susan Bean.
“We are presently evaluating our ongoing relationship with him.” Woods’ ties to AT&T predate the golf bag deal.”
The New York Post had this to say:
“The announcement by the Procter & Gamble division marks the first major sponsor of the superstar athlete and corporate pitchman to distance itself from Woods.
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.”
