David Duval, who became the first Nike athlete to win a major championship using Nike clubs in 2001, has re-signed with the Swoosh, the company announced Monday. Duval will make his season debut at this week’s AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.
This news came as no surprise – Duval had tweeted his re-signing with Nike weeks ago. Duval, 41, and the Beaverton, Ore.-based company had split in late 2010.
Duval will use the Nike VR_S Covert driver, VR Pro Limited Edition fairway woods, VR Pro Blade irons, VR Pro wedges and Method Prototype putter. He will also play the 201XI-X ball.
“I could not be more excited to once again become a Nike athlete,” Duval said in a release. “Nike Golf has been a major player in the success I have had throughout my career. I am thrilled to return to the Swoosh and continue my career with a brand that focuses on developing innovative products.”
The last of Duval’s 13 career PGA Tour titles came at the 2001 British Open. Recently he has fallen on hard times, dealing with nagging injuries and finishing inside the top 125 in earnings just once in the last 10 seasons. Last year, he made the cut in just three of 17 events. Throughout his career he has ascended to world No. 1 and appeared on three Presidents Cup teams and two Ryder Cup squads.
“We have always had a great relationship with David and are happy to welcome him back to the Nike family,” said Mark Thaxton, global director of sports marketing operations for Nike Golf.