|
 Tiger Woods -
Wednesday, December 09, 2009 By Andrew Shapiro
Advertising
Tiger Woods: Will Recent Controversy be His Downfall?$0$0$0$0 I’m sure you’ve all heard of Tiger Woods. With 14 major championship wins in 15 years, Tiger is likely the best golfer in the world. Until recently, Woods had a spotless image in the eyes of the American people, establishing charities and projects such as the Tiger Woods Foundation and the Tiger Woods Learning Center. Tiger Woods has always been a role model to Americans. However, the past week has not been too great for his reputation.$0$0 On November 27, Tiger Woods had an early morning car accident near his home, prompting an investigation for the cause of the accident. Two days later, Woods issued a statement saying the accident was his fault, but a private matter between him and his wife. Speculation soon arose, and in the midst of this speculation, he decided not to attend his own charity golf competition, the Chevron Golf Challenge. $0$0 When Woods refused to attend the Chevron Challenge, interest in his story only increased. Thorough investigation into Woods’ story led the National Enquirer to release an article claiming that Woods had had an affair with nightclub manager Rachel Uchitel, a claim which she denied. Soon, US Weekly released a story about another affair by Tiger Woods. Since then, three more women have been claimed to have had affairs with the star golfer. But how will such scandals affect Tiger Woods’ career?$0$0 According to Sports Business Radio, Tiger Woods has been “the world’s most profitable athlete.” From AT&T to Gatorade to Nike, Tiger Woods makes much of his living by endorsing popular brands. According to Lacey Rose of Forbes magazine, it is Woods’ reputation that has made him so appealing to the companies that endorse him. "He's making more money off the golf course than on thanks to hugely lucrative endorsement deals," says Rose. In fact, in 2008 Woods made approximately $12 million playing golf and an additional $110 million in endorsements. However, with his car accident and alleged affairs bringing his spotless image into question, what will happen to his endorsements?$0$0 While the viewing public may be able to forget Woods’ mistakes, it is unlikely that his sponsors will be as forgiving. Tiger makes most of his money through his wholesome reputation, and with this reputation tarnished, his vast wealth will undoubtedly take a hit in the long run. Though it is unknown to what extent this scandal will impact him, one thing’s for sure: it will not be forgotten for a long time.$0$0$0$0
|