Reuters - FACTBOX: Sponsors stand by Tiger Woods after apology

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FACTBOX: Sponsors stand by Tiger Woods after apology

Wednesday, Dec 02, 2009 6:53PM UTC

(Reuters) - Golfer Tiger Woods, engulfed in media speculation over his private life after a car accident in the middle of the night, apologized on Wednesday for "transgressions" in a statement that apparently addressed allegations he had extra-marital relationships.

Several sponsors, who collectively pay Woods about $100 million a year to tout their products and services, said later on Wednesday their relationships would not change with one of the most recognized athletes in the world.

ELECTRONIC ARTS INC:

"Our strong relationship with Tiger for more than a decade remains unchanged. We respect Tiger's privacy, we wish him a fast recovery and we look forward to seeing him back on the golf course," the company said in a statement.

TLC VISION CORP:

"Tiger Woods is important to TLC Vision. Our relationship with him continues without change. This is a private matter and we have no further comment," the company said in a statement.

DAVID SOKOL, CEO, BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY'S NETJETS INC UNIT:

"Tiger Woods is one of the premiere athletes in the world and we are proud to have him involved with NetJets."

PEPSICO INC'S GATORADE UNIT:

"Tiger and his family have our support as they work through this private matter. Our partnership continues," the company said in a statement.

PROCTER & GAMBLE'S GILLETTE UNIT:

"At this time, we are not making any changes to our existing marketing programs. As a matter of policy, we don't comment on future marketing plans," the company said in a statement.

NIKE INC:

"Nike supports Tiger and his family. Our relationship remains unchanged," the company said in a statement.

Officials with AT&T Inc, Accenture, Tag Heuer, and Upper Deck could not be reached for comment.

(Reporting by Ben Klayman in New York; Editing by Frances Kerry)