Is TaylorMade Breaking Up with Dustin Johnson?

For several years now, TaylorMade has made it a yearend “tradition” to post its Christmas Card, featuring the different members of Team TaylorMade. But while many may view this as something to bring seasonal cheer, the TaylorMade Christmas Card also has some subtle, nefarious undertones, as it has also served as the unofficial break-up notice for the brand.

Indeed, in December 2020, two noteworthy members of Team TaylorMade—Jon Rahm and Jason Day—were both absent from that year’s Christmas card.

Wishing you a safe and happy holiday season. Merry Christmas, from #TeamTaylorMade! pic.twitter.com/2ec6Z71EVX

— TaylorMade Golf (@TaylorMadeGolf) December 15, 2020

Shortly thereafter, it was announced that Rahm would be returning to Callaway—after playing the brand during his time at Arizona State University—and Day would not be renewed (who still, as of this moment, is unsigned to a club equipment deal, but remains a Nike apparel athlete).

Again, this year’s Christmas Card featured some noteworthy faces:  Tiger Woods, World No. 1 Rory McIlroy, World No. 2 Scottie Scheffler (his 1st TaylorMade Christmas card), Collin Morikawa, Tommy Fleetwood, and World No. 17 LGPA golfer Charlie Hull.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by TaylorMade Golf (@taylormadegolf)

Noticeable absent, however, was longtime TaylorMade golden child Dustin Johnson.

The 2-time Major winner has suffered some reputational harm since announcing his defection to LIV in May 2022. Indeed, RBC—who has backed DJ since 2018—promptly terminated their sponsorship just days after his announcement. TaylorMade—who’s backed all 14 years of DJ’s professional career and the 28 victories during that span—also seems to put some distance between themselves and DJ.

DJ, however, isn’t alone, as Matt Wolff and Sergio Garcia—who’ve also joined LIV—were also absent. So it will be interesting to see if TaylorMade is trying to implement a subtle, anti-LIV stance or if these are the first signs that the brand may be severing ties with one of its most tenured relationships in 2023.

Cover Image Via GOLF.com