While making any comparisons to Tiger Woods as a golfer is generally a futile endeavor, Sun Day Red’s first brand ambassador embodies some undeniable parallels to the apparel company’s founder – at least early in his playing career.

Karl Vilips, a former Stanford University standout and the 2024 Rookie of the Year on the Korn Ferry Tour, will debut in Sun Day Red apparel beginning this week at the Mexico Open as he undertakes a full PGA TOUR schedule.

Like Woods, the 23-year-old Vilips followed a path from child prodigy to champion golfer at Stanford and the No. 1 ranked amateur golfer in the world. Vilips won the U.S. Kids and Junior World Championships at ages 7, 9, 10 and 12, and was one of golf’s first youth content creators. He and his father began documenting his golf journey on YouTube at age six in 2008, well before the era of social media influencers, and like Woods, he made several television appearances as a child.

“Karl’s journey has been marked by success at every level he’s played,” said Woods, who debuted his new apparel line in 2024 in partnership with TaylorMade. “At Sun Day Red, we were drawn towards his relentless work ethic, and pioneering spirit that embody what we stand for and look for in our athletes. With his impressive track record and determination, I have no doubt he will make a significant impact quickly on the PGA TOUR and is one of the game’s future stars.”

Vilips was born in Jakarta, Indonesia, calls Perth, Australia, his hometown and now resides in Jacksonville, Florida, as he pursues a professional golf career.

“It’s a thrill to be a part of Sun Day Red, especially so early on as we start to grow the brand around the world,” said Vilips, who won the 2024 Pac-12 Conference Championship at Stanford and was named first-team All-Pac 12 as a junior and senior. “Tiger Woods was my idol growing up, and knowing that he drives the insights and meticulousness behind Sun Day Red’s apparel and footwear gives us a unique edge that no other company can match. I couldn’t be more proud to be the brand’s first official ambassador.”

Vilips quickly secured his PGA TOUR card after finishing 19^th in the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour standings, highlighted by his victory at the Utah Championship. In winning Rookie of the Year honors, he ranked first in birdie average, third in driving distance at almost 327 yards, and fourth in scoring average (68.58).

Vilips will wear Sun Day Red’s polos across three categories, performance pants and shorts, mid-layer pieces includes sweaters, quarter zips and hoodies, premium outwear, and the brand’s Pioneer Cypress footwear line.

“Karl’s story resonates deeply with our brand’s DNA,” said Sun Day Red President Brad Blankinship. “From his early success as a junior golfer, to his achievements at Stanford and his innovative approach to connecting with fans through social media, Karl represents the perfect blend of golf’s traditions and its future. His relentless pursuit of excellence makes him an ideal ambassador for Sun Day Red.”