Nike has officially confirmed Monday announcing the signing of Rory McIlroy to a multi-year deal worth roughly around $20 million a year.
The partnership was announced in the United Arab Emirates ahead of this week's Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, where he will use to company's equipment for the first time.
''Rory is an extraordinary athlete who creates enormous excitement with his on-course performance while, at the same time connecting with fans everywhere,'' said Cindy Davis, president of Nike Golf. ''He is the epitome of a Nike Athlete, and he is joining our team during the most exciting time in Nike Golf's history. We are looking forward to partnering with him to take his remarkable career to the next level.''
McIlroy's switch to Nike had been widely expected, but he insists he's not making the switch because of the money.
''I don't play golf for the money, I am well past that,'' McIlroy said. ''I'm a major champion and world No. 1, which I have always dreamed of being, and feel this is a company that can help me sustain that and win even more major titles. At the end of 2013, if I have not won another major I will be disappointed.''
Nike already unveiled a new commercial entitled ''No Cup is Safe'' that begins running Wednesday featuring McIlroy and Woods on the driving range - with each trying to outdo the other.
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