Nike Golf's 'Ripple' shows how Tiger Woods inspired a young Rory McIlroy to golf stardom
Nike Golf has released a film documenting how Tiger Woods inspired Rory McIlroy to compete at the highest level in a life-spanning video showing the young Irish golfer’s determination to emulate Wood’s success.
Created in partnership with Wieden + Kennedy, Nike’s ‘Ripple’ shows how great athletes adopt role models in sport when they are young, with Woods commenting that he in turn grew up with Jack Nicklaus as his idol.
The film, which was produced in one and two minute versions, takes viewers back to Rory’s hometown of Holywood, Northern Ireland, showing him over the years as he was captured by Woods’ greatest performances.
McIlroy said: “As a kid, I looked up to Tiger, when I first saw him on TV, I remember being completely enamored by the energy he brought to the sport. His will to win. His determination. His fight.”
“It’s been an incredible journey for me, going from massive fan to competitor, to think that not too long ago I was that little boy watching him on TV to where I am now. It’s been a cool journey and I’m very lucky I get to compete with and against him, because he inspired me as a kid and he inspires me now. He’s the best player I’ve ever seen.”
Tiger Woods added: “I’ve been in that same situation, growing up, Jack [Nicklaus] was my idol. My first recollection of The Masters was 1986, when Jack won. I remember him making a putt at 17 and lifting that putter up.
“Fourteen years later at the 2000 PGA Championship, I got to play with and against him – someone I looked up to.”
Woods concluded: “It’s neat because I’ve been able to be a part of different generations of competitors. Now I’m competing against the younger ones. It helps me train a little harder, because these guys are athletic.”
The slot was released online ahead of the pair competing in the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on ESPN and The Golf Channel.