March 17, 2021 | BY AAGD STAFF
He’s back!— digitally, at least, Tiger Woods returns to the game.
The top golfer has signed a long-term partnership deal with the company behind the “PGA Tour 2K” video game series and the deal means the 15-time major champion will be returning to an industry he once dominated with EA Sports.
The deal was announced on Tuesday, March 16, nearly a month after Woods suffered career-threatening leg injuries when he crashed an SUV on a steep road in the Los Angeles suburbs.
As fans around the world wait to see if Woods will return to playing on the PGA Tour, where his 82 victories are tied with Sam Snead for most all-time. One thing is for certain, Woods’ name and likeness will be used exclusively in the “PGA Tour 2K” franchise.
Last year, Woods’ name was not among the players included in the 2K game. This year, althought he is included, it is unclear whether or not he will be added, or if his name or image will be used on the cover. A news release from 2K said only that Woods would be an executive director and consultant.
The former World #1 golfer had previously partnered with EA Sports for 15 years, and the “Tiger Woods PGA Tour” series is among the most successful sports video games ever. However, in four years the two parted ways after news of Woods’ extramarital affairs damaged his public image.
In 2015, Rory McIlroy graced the cover of the game which EA Sports rebuilt from scratch. The makeover wasn’t very captivating to the buying public and the game received below-average reviews. Since then, EA Sports has been sort of ‘licking its wounds’ and has not produced a game.
“I am looking forward to making my return to the video game landscape, and with 2K and HB Studios, I’ve found the right partners to make it happen,” Woods said in a statement released by 2K. “I’m honored to take part in this opportunity and look forward to sharing my expertise and insights as we build the future of golf video games together.”
