The victory of Tiger Woods at the Masters in 1997 marked the commencement of his illustrious golfing career. It was a moment of triumph not only for Woods, but also for Hughes Norton, the agent who had played a crucial role in transforming him into a multi-millionaire long before his professional triumph.
Norton held the position of head of the golf division at global sports agency IMG, where he had collaborated with prominent figures in golf such as Arnold Palmer and Greg Norman during the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. His encounter with Woods occurred when the exceptional golfer was just 12 years old. Norton successfully persuaded Woods’ parents to entrust him and IMG with managing his career once he embarked on his professional journey.
Seven years later, Woods turned professional, having secured a multitude of lucrative endorsement deals, all orchestrated by Norton. For example, Nike guaranteed him $40 million over five years irrespective of his performance. Additionally, his deal with equipment manufacturer Titleist granted him $20 million over five years, alongside other significant deals.
Despite Woods’ newfound fortune, Norton noted Woods’ lack of enthusiasm upon receiving such generous contracts, substantiated with Woods’ indifference towards the “paper money” he made from non-golf-related sources.
Throughout the Tigermania whirlwind, Norton was tasked with managing the avalanche of requests for Woods’ time and attention, rejecting most of them. Nevertheless, Norton’s efforts did not go unnoticed, as his IMG salary skyrocketed to $750,000 a year following Woods’ breakthrough year in 1997.
Their business relationship came to an unexpected end in 1998 when Norton agreed to be featured in a story regarding Woods’ commercial success, resulting in Woods terminating their partnership. Norton’s departure from IMG came with a $9 million severance package, prompting a significant change in lifestyle. In the subsequent years, he observed Woods’ professional achievements while being dismayed by the off-the-course controversies that surrounded him.
Despite his pivotal role in elevating Tiger Woods into his legendary status, Norton never heard from the golfing icon again.