The company, which boasts two of the biggest names in the sport playing its clubs in Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, said in a statement that it plans to “accelerate innovation” in its golf footwear and apparel business and will partner with more of the world’s best golfers. “With this new focus, Nike Golf will transition out of equipment, including clubs, balls and bags,” the statement said.

“We’re committed to being the undisputed leader in golf footwear and apparel. We will achieve this by investing in performance innovation for athletes and delivering sustainable profitable growth for Nike Golf.” - Trevor Edwards, President, Nike Brand.

The statement did not mention what Nike’s plans are in terms of its current Tour staff players, who are paid to use Nike clubs and balls as well as wear their shoes and apparel.

Nike Golf burst onto the equipment scene in the late ‘90s with the biggest endorsement signing in the history of the game when Woods joined Nike. It is understood, Woods was informed of Nike’s exit from hardware production and he and his management already have plans in place to sign with another manufacturer.

McIlroy was the company’s most recent big-name signing, having been lured into the Nike Golf fold in 2013 for a reported $200 million over 10 years. His 2014 PGA Championship victory is the most recent major title captured by a player using Nike gear.

In addition to Woods and McIlroy, other notable pros currently using Nike equipment include Michelle Wie, Suzann Pettersen, Brooks Koepka, Tony Finau, Thorbjorn Olesen, Ross Fisher, Russell Henley, Cheyenne Woods, Paul Casey and recent PGA Tour winner Jhonattan Vegas. Koepka and Finau only signed with Nike Golf in January this year

PHOTO: Getty Images

Nike recently announced golf sales in the United States fell 8.2 percent to $706 million for the fiscal year ending May 31, which was the lowest performing sector for the company during that 12 month period. This was down from the US sales peak of $792 million in revenue in 2013.

“Athletes like Tiger, Rory and Michelle drive tremendous energy for the game and inspire consumers worldwide,” says Daric Ashford, President of Nike Golf. “Over the past year the MM Fly Blade Polo, the Flyknit Chukka and Air Zoom 90 have all connected strongly with golfers. We’ll continue to ignite excitement with our athletes and deliver the best of Nike for the game.”