Sports drink drops embattled Woods

Sports drink drops embattled Woods
by:Ramos, Alfredo

NEW YORK – Gatorade has ended its endorsement deal with Tiger Woods, joining the list of sponsors to drop the superstar golfer in the wake of a sex scandal.
"We no longer see a role for Tiger in our marketing efforts and have ended our relationship," a Gatorade spokeswoman said Friday. "We wish him all the best."
The spokeswoman for the sports drink, sold by PepsiCo, said Gatorade would continue its relationship with the Tiger Woods Foundation, Woods' charitable organization that focuses on offering educational opportunities to disadvantaged children.
Gatorade discontinued its Tiger Woods-brand drinks in November, a decision that was made before Woods' marital infidelity sparked a media frenzy.
Gatorade originally stuck by Woods, while some other sponsors including consulting firm Accenture and US telecoms giant AT&T severed their ties with the American.
Last week Woods, 34, emerged from self-imposed exile to read a statement in which he admitted to the affairs that have damaged his marriage and reputation and put his career in limbo.
Sporting goods manufacturer Nike has since reiterated its support of Woods, who said last week he did not know when he would return to golf.