Golf legend Jack Nicklaus settled his trademark infringement lawsuit against PowerPro Sports LLC on February 20, 2020. As we previously reported, Nicklaus Companies LLC, Nicklaus’ corporate vehicle, sued PowerPro, makers of the Powerchute golf training technology, alleging that the company unlawfully used his likeness and trademarks without permission to promote their training product.
According to the lawsuit, Nicklaus made an agreement with PowerPro and allowed the company to use videos and photographs of himself to promote their product; however, Nicklaus described the agreement as a personal favor to Jim Sowerwine, the maker of the Powerchute and a friend of Nicklaus’ son, Gary. Nicklaus claimed that PowerPro could only use the videos and photographs so long as Sowerwine was involved in the business. Sowerwine’s financial interest in PowerPro ended sometime between 2011 and 2015; however, PowerPro continued to use the videos and photographs after Sowerwine’s financial interest ended.
According to reports, PowerPro has agreed to stop its unauthorized use of Nicklaus’ likeness and trademarks and to pay Nicklaus $15,000.00 to cover litigation costs.