Is Rory joining Tiger at Nike?

Rory McIlroy is officially a free agent when it comes to golf equipment.

McIlroy and Acushnet Co., which has supplied the 23-year-old Northern Ireland star with Titleist and FootJoy gear respectively, since he turned pro five years ago, said yesterday they will not extend their relationship after this year.

The announcement allows McIlroy to pursue a lucrative endorsement contract, with strong indications that he will sign with Nike in a deal that one industry observer estimated at $20 million a year.