Thursday 15 December 2016 14:05, UK
Tiger Woods has announced he has signed a deal to use Bridgestone golf balls as he begins a series of equipment changes.
The likes of Woods and Rory McIlroy are currently in the process of altering their set-up following the decision of Nike to cease production of clubs and balls, although they will continue to supply clothing and footwear to many of the world's leading players.
Woods returned to competitive golf after an absence of almost 16 months at the Hero World Challenge earlier this month in the Bahamas, where he continued to use Nike irons but switched to a TaylorMade driver and fairway woods.
The 14-time major champion also put a Bridgestone ball into play for the first time and was clearly satisfied with the results as he signed a multi-year contract with the manufacturers.
"Finding the right golf ball is extremely important," Woods, who turns 41 at the end of the month. "It's an essential part of my equipment, and the Bridgestone B330-S ball is hands-down the best for my game.
"Controlling launch and trajectory is critical, and with this ball I feel I have total control to hit all shots accurately. I'm not just here to play - I'm here to win."
Woods led the elite 17-man field with 24 birdies at Albany, although he also blotted his card with six double-bogeys over the week as he finished 15th, but he was delighted with his performance having been out of the game for so long.
"As of right now, I'm longer than I've ever been - I'm about six yards longer," he added. "Being able to hit one, even half a club, [less] into the green is a huge advantage. I was shocked at how stable the ball is. The accuracy and aerodynamics are incredible."
Bridgestone Golf president and chief executive officer Angel Ilagan added: "No one spends more time perfecting their equipment than Tiger Woods, and no one holds their equipment to a higher standard. His choice of Bridgestone sends a clear message that our golf balls are superior to all others."
Woods has yet to release his intended playing schedule for 2017, although he did announce earlier this week that he had committed to playing in the Genesis Open at Riviera in February.
McIlroy, meanwhile, is currently testing new equipment in Dubai having also put TaylorMade woods into play last month.
