Easy Call for Nike

Earlier today, Nike introduced Rory McIlroy as Tiger Woods' heir apparent. In reality, McIlroy announced himself as Tiger's likely successor as golf's next superstar with his dominant victory in the 2011 U.S. Open at Congressional. However, Nike's decision to sign Rory to a five-year contract, estimated to be worth up to $200 million has sent shock waves throughout the sports industry and confirmed the Northern Irishman's place among the world's most famous athletes.

Nike's endorsement of McIlroy is not at all a surprising move. Their deal, and loyalty, to Tiger Woods has illustrated their commitment to partnering with the superheros of sport, regardless of any off-the-course hiccups: Roger Federer, LeBron James, Cristiano Ronaldo, and now McIlroy. With Woods entering the back nine of his career, Nike's investment in McIlroy proves their confidence that the 23 year-old will win many, many more major championships. Though the brand has also invested in several other young players, Phil Knight is putting all of his eggs in McIlroy's basket. By the way, Knight stated earlier today that he looked forward to meeting Rory at the Master's. Pretty amazing that the Nike headman has never met McIlroy and yet he invested an estimated $200 million in the young man.

For Nike, the move makes so much sense. It means that the two top golfers in the world are playing with their clubs. It ensures that there will be a couple extra swooshes on everyone's television screens this year, beginning with this week's Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, during which Tiger and Rory are expected to be paired together. Most importantly of all, however, it will ensure that another generation of young golfers will grow up worshiping a Nike athlete, and a pretty good one at that.

By the way, how good is the new Nike Golf commercial?