Table of Contents
Football is undoubtedly one of the most popular sports in the world. It is a game that requires a lot of skill, discipline, and hard work. The game has allowed many players worldwide to make a living out of it, but it is no secret that a footballer’s career is limited in time. After hanging up their boots, many footballers struggle to find a new purpose and a way to stay relevant.
However, in recent years, many retired footballers have ventured into entrepreneurship and made a name for themselves in various business ventures. This article will explore why footballers make successful entrepreneurs and some of the most notable cases.
Why Footballers Make Successful Entrepreneurs
Footballers have many traits that make them successful entrepreneurs.
Discipline and Work Ethic: Footballers are used to rigorous training and strict schedules. They know how to work hard and persevere through tough times, which is vital in business.
Networking: Footballers often have access to influential people in the sports industry and beyond. This network can be beneficial in securing funding or partnerships for new ventures.
Branding: Footballers are brand ambassadors for their clubs and sponsors. They understand the importance of branding and marketing and can leverage their brand to promote their business.
5 Footballers Who Became Successful Entrepreneurs
Only a few football players have managed to translate their success on the pitch to the boardroom. Here are five footballers who became successful entrepreneurs:
01
of 05
David Beckham
David Beckham is one of the most famous footballers of all time, having played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and Paris Saint-Germain, among others. After retiring from football, Beckham ventured into business and founded DB Ventures, which invests in fashion, sports, and entertainment. He has also launched his brand of aftershave, clothing, and eyewear.
Moreover, he has also invested in several companies, including Guild Esports, an esports organization listed on the London Stock Exchange. With an estimated net worth of over $450 million, Beckham is undoubtedly one of the most successful footballers in the world.
02
of 05
Cristiano Ronaldo
Ronaldo LuÃs Nazário de Lima, also known as Ronaldo, is a Brazilian football legend who played for clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan. After retiring from football, he started his sports marketing agency called 9ine, which has partnered with companies like Nike, Coca-Cola, and Clear, among others.
Furthermore, he has also invested in startups like Peixe Urbano, a Brazilian daily deals website, and baby food maker, Nutribebe. Ronaldo is currently estimated to be worth over $150 million and continues to invest in various startups and business ventures.
03
of 05
Ryan Giggs
Ryan Giggs is a retired Welsh footballer who spent his entire career playing for Manchester United. After retiring from football, he started his chain of restaurants called Cafe Football, which has branches in Manchester, London, and Singapore.
Moreover, he also launched his fitness app called “Giggs Fitness,” which provides users with customized workouts and nutritional plans. With an estimated net worth of over $50 million, Giggs is one of the most successful footballers turned entrepreneurs.
04
of 05
Michael Owen
Michael Owen is a retired English footballer who played for clubs like Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. After retiring from football, he started his horse racing and breeding business called Manor House Stables, which has several racehorses that have won multiple races.
Furthermore, he has also invested in various startups and companies, including Sportlobster, a sports-based social media platform, and Cheshire-based property company Harper Jones. Owen is estimated to be worth over $70 million and continues to invest in startups and business ventures.
05
of 05
Gary Neville
Gary Neville is a retired English footballer who spent his entire career playing for Manchester United. After retiring from football, he started his business ventures, which include a property development company called St. Michael’s, which is currently developing a new mixed-use development in Manchester.
Furthermore, he has also launched his hospitality company, GG Hospitality, which owns several restaurants and hotels, including Hotel Football and The Rabbit in the Moon. With an estimated net worth of over $20 million, Neville is one of the most successful footballers turned entrepreneurs.
In conclusion, these footballers have proved that there is life after football and have successfully translated their success on the pitch to the boardroom. They have invested in various startups and business ventures and have also launched their brands, which have become successful. It is inspiring to see footballers become entrepreneurs and significantly impact the business world.