Donald Extends Mizuno Partnership
Mizuno has announced an extension to one of the longest-standing equipment relationships in golf with world number three Luke Donald set to continue as a brand ambassador.
The agreement ensures that Donald, often recognised for his superior iron play, will continue to play the Mizuno equipment that has led him to 13 professional victories, including his record-breaking 2011 campaign which propelled him to the top rank on both PGA Tour and European Tour money lists in the same year, a feat that no other golfer had ever claimed – although current world number one Rory McIlroy later repeated the achievement the following year.
According to the official press release, Donald – who signed on as a Mizuno brand ambassador in 2003 – regularly provides the Japanese golf equipment manufacturer with feedback throughout the development of new products.
In 2011 and 2012 Donald experienced the most prolific period of his career, holding the world #1 position for a total of 56 weeks. With four international victories in 2011 and top ranks on both PGA Tour and European Tour money lists, Donald was named the PGA Player of the Year and PGA Tour Player of the Year, becoming the first Englishman to win either award. He was also named the European Tour Golfer of the Year.
Donald said: ‘I feel as if I am playing as well as ever at this stage in my career. Over the next few years I want to be in a position to win major championships and to continue to improve each year.’
‘We’ve refined my Mizuno equipment in the last couple of seasons and I’m really happy with what I have in the bag right now, so it gives me great pleasure to extend this relationship. Mizuno is the most precise, incredible club-maker out there, and I’m honoured to represent this quality brand.’
The news is a stark contrast to another golf deal in recent weeks, which saw Rory McIlroy make his first club switch since turning professional, after Nike Golf confirmed a new partnership set to make the Northern Irishman one of the richest sportsmen on the planet.
However, the two-time major winner has already seen his golf put under pressure, after missing the cut in his first tournament with his new Nike clubs.
