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Top 10 Footballers With Businesses Outside Football
Footballers are often celebrated for their prowess on the pitch, but many of them are also shrewd entrepreneurs. With fame, fortune, and massive followings, these players have ventured into the business world, building empires that extend their wealth far beyond their playing careers. Here’s a look at the top 10 richest footballers who have successfully established businesses outside football.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Net Worth: $500 million+
Business Ventures: CR7 Brand, Hotels, Fitness Centers, Endorsements
Cristiano Ronaldo is not just a football icon but a business mogul. His CR7 brand, which includes clothing, footwear, fragrances, and eyewear, is a global success. Ronaldo also owns a chain of luxury hotels under the Pestana CR7 brand, located in Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. Additionally, his partnership with Crunch Fitness has resulted in a series of gyms. Ronaldo's charisma and marketing acumen have made him one of the most marketable athletes in history.
2. Lionel Messi
Net Worth: $400 million+
Business Ventures: Real Estate, Clothing Line, Endorsements
Lionel Messi, often regarded as the greatest footballer of all time, has also ventured into business. He has invested heavily in real estate, owning luxury hotels under the MiM Hotels brand. Messi also has a clothing line, The Messi Store, which reflects his personality and style. With endorsement deals from global giants like Adidas, Pepsi, and Budweiser, Messi’s income streams are as impressive as his football skills.
3. David Beckham
Net Worth: $450 million+
Business Ventures: Inter Miami CF, Fashion, Endorsements
David Beckham is a trailblazer when it comes to footballers expanding their careers into business. As the co-owner of Inter Miami CF, Beckham has made significant inroads into Major League Soccer. He also has partnerships with brands like H&M, Adidas, and Haig Club whiskey. Beckham’s sharp sense of style and branding has kept him relevant and wealthy long after his retirement from professional football.
4. Neymar Jr.
Net Worth: $200 million+
Business Ventures: Real Estate, Esports, Endorsements
Neymar is not just a football superstar but also a savvy businessman. He has invested in real estate, including luxury homes in Brazil and France. Neymar has also delved into the world of esports, launching the NR Sports esports team. With endorsements from brands like Puma, Red Bull, and Qatar Airways, Neymar’s business portfolio is as flamboyant as his footballing style.
5. Zlatan Ibrahimović
Net Worth: $190 million+
Business Ventures: A-Z Clothing Line, Esports, Real Estate
Zlatan Ibrahimović is as bold in business as he is on the field. He launched his own clothing line, A-Z Sportswear, and has invested in real estate, owning several properties in Sweden and abroad. Zlatan also has a stake in esports, showcasing his adaptability in identifying lucrative markets. His larger-than-life personality makes him a magnet for endorsements, further boosting his wealth.
6. Gerard Piqué
Net Worth: $80 million+
Business Ventures: Kosmos Holdings, Video Games, Real Estate
Gerard Piqué is one of the most business-savvy footballers, thanks to his ownership of Kosmos Holdings, a company focused on sports and entertainment. Kosmos famously revamped the Davis Cup in tennis. Piqué has also invested in video games, acquiring a stake in the fantasy football platform Sorare. His ventures in real estate further demonstrate his versatility as an entrepreneur.
7. Andrés Iniesta
Net Worth: $120 million+
Business Ventures: Bodega Iniesta, Sportswear, Investments
Andrés Iniesta, known for his humility and brilliance on the pitch, has quietly built a thriving business empire. He owns a winery, Bodega Iniesta, which produces wine from his family’s vineyards in Spain. Iniesta has also invested in sportswear and other ventures, ensuring financial security long after his illustrious football career.
8. Didier Drogba
Net Worth: $90 million+
Business Ventures: Real Estate, Coffee Business, Charity Foundation
Didier Drogba is not only a football legend but also a businessman with a heart. He has invested in real estate across Africa and Europe. Drogba also runs a coffee business, promoting sustainable agriculture in his home country, Ivory Coast. Through the Didier Drogba Foundation, he combines his entrepreneurial ventures with philanthropy, uplifting communities across Africa.
9. Antoine Griezmann
Net Worth: $75 million+
Business Ventures: Esports Team, Horse Racing, Endorsements
Antoine Griezmann has diversified his income streams with smart investments. He owns an esports team, Grizi Esport, and is a passionate investor in horse racing. Griezmann’s sponsorship deals with brands like Puma and Huawei contribute significantly to his net worth. His strategic ventures showcase his vision beyond football.
10. Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. (Future Prospect)
Net Worth (Projected): Millions under parental guidance
Business Ventures: Branding Opportunities
While still a budding footballer, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr. is already considered a future business mogul, riding on the success of his father. With branding opportunities and endorsements under his father’s guidance, the younger Ronaldo is poised to inherit and expand the CR7 empire.
Why Do Footballers Venture Into Business?
The business ventures of these footballers are not just about increasing their net worth but also preparing for life after football. Here are some reasons why footballers turn to entrepreneurship:
- Longevity: A football career is relatively short, often peaking between 10-15 years.
- Brand Value: Footballers leverage their global fan base and influence to create and promote businesses.
- Diversification: They diversify their income to secure financial stability.
- Passion Projects: Many ventures align with their personal interests, such as real estate, fashion, and esports.
Lessons from These Footballers
- Leverage Your Fame: Use your platform to launch businesses and attract customers.
- Plan for the Future: Think about life beyond your primary career and invest wisely.
- Pursue Your Interests: Align your business ventures with your passions to increase the chances of success.
- Diversify: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; explore multiple avenues for income.
Conclusion
These top 10 richest footballers have shown that success on the pitch can translate into remarkable achievements in the business world. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s global CR7 brand to Gerard Piqué’s innovative Kosmos Holdings, these players are redefining what it means to be a footballer. Their entrepreneurial ventures serve as inspiration for athletes and non-athletes alike, proving that with determination, vision, and hard work, the sky’s the limit.
Who is your favorite footballer-turned-business mogul? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
