Amid Its $28 Billion Loss, Nike Makes Pregnant Michelle Wie West Emotional With ‘Sweetest’ Gesture

The LPGA Tour star Michelle Wie West is expecting her second child with her husband, Jonnie West, and she has received a special surprise from Nike. The giant athleisure brand was one of her earliest sponsors, signing her at the age of 15, and their partnership has remained strong to date. Although Nike ended its iconic 27-year-long relationship with Tiger Woods, its relationship with West remains unchanged, even after she retires from professional golf.

In a series of Instagram stories, the 5-time LPGA Tour winner, Michelle Wie West shared the “sweetest [pregnancy] package” she received from Nike Women to help her through the next few months. The package came with a heartfelt note that motivated the 34-year-old to keep pushing during her pregnancy, even when days were tiring.

The note, which left the 34-year-old emotional, read, “Sometimes you might doubt yourself. But you’ll keep pushing yourself too. Because there was never any question. You are stronger than ever.” Along with clothes for her growing baby bump, Nike also sent three pairs of shoes for her unborn son, which were dainty and adorable.

After losing Woods to his own brand, Sun Day Red, Nike is likely trying to recover from the $28 billion loss it incurred in the fiscal year due to a 20% market share loss. The brand was labeled ‘experience’ by consumers, leading previous Nike users to buy other products. Nonetheless, during this time when the brand might be struggling, West wouldn’t withdraw her support, as Nike didn’t when she was.

Michelle Wie West signs with Nike Think Tank
In 2022, Michelle Wie West revealed her plan to move away from professional golf as she was struggling to replicate her previous success on the LPGA Tour, and with various injuries, things were getting out of hand. Thus, the 5-time LPGA Tour winner played the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open as her last event and stopped thereafter.

The decision was crucial for her health, but it came with the risk that Nike might end its sponsorship with West. However, the clothing giant did the opposite and signed the LPGA star for five more years in 2022. Not only that, but West also became an integral part of the Nike Think Tank, where she collaborated and helped promote women’s sports.