Today’s footballers are making headlines not only for their on-field performances but also for their savvy investments off the pitch. With careers that can be relatively short-lived compared to other professions, many high-earning players are recognizing the importance of planning for life after football. They’re investing in everything from tech startups to real estate, creating diverse portfolios that will ensure financial stability and sustained income after they hang up their boots. Here’s a look at some of the wealthiest players who are scoring big by investing beyond the game.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – Expanding the CR7 Brand
Cristiano Ronaldo’s name is synonymous with both football success and entrepreneurial achievement. Beyond his astronomical earnings on the field, Ronaldo has skillfully expanded his CR7 brand into various sectors. His CR7 line of clothing, footwear, and fragrances keeps his brand presence high, but Ronaldo hasn’t stopped there. He’s heavily invested in hospitality, with his Pestana CR7 hotel chain located in major tourist destinations like Lisbon, Madeira, and Madrid. He’s also tapped into the fitness industry with his CR7 Fitness gym chain, catering to his global fanbase of health enthusiasts. Through diverse investments, Ronaldo has built a multi-industry empire that secures his wealth and broadens his influence.
2. Lionel Messi – A Real Estate Investor with a Luxury Portfolio
Lionel Messi, Ronaldo’s on-field rival, is also his counterpart in the investment world. Known for his quiet demeanor, Messi has been making significant moves in real estate. His MiM Hotels brand, part of his holding company Majestic, includes properties in Ibiza, the Costa Brava, and other prime locations in Spain. These luxury hotels cater to high-end tourists, helping Messi transition smoothly into the hospitality business. Beyond real estate, Messi has endorsements with brands like Adidas, with whom he has a lifetime partnership. His investments reflect a calculated approach, ensuring he’s well-prepared for life after football while maintaining his brand’s premium image.
3. David Beckham – The Soccer Icon Turned Business Tycoon
Few footballers have transitioned as seamlessly into business as David Beckham. Known globally for his style, Beckham leveraged his popularity into a series of successful ventures. He co-owns Inter Miami CF, an MLS team that has been attracting top players and raising the profile of soccer in the United States. Beckham also invested in the rapidly growing world of eSports through Guild Esports, appealing to a younger, tech-savvy audience. His endorsement deals remain strong, including partnerships with Adidas and H&M, and his brand continues to expand with a whiskey label, Haig Club, which is growing its market share worldwide. Beckham’s ventures show a strong understanding of brand management, allowing him to sustain his legacy long after his football career ended.
4. Gerard Piqué – Revolutionizing Sports and Entertainment
Gerard Piqué is often recognized as one of the smartest investors among footballers. The Barcelona defender co-founded Kosmos Holding, a company focused on sports, media, and entertainment, which made waves by signing a multi-billion dollar deal to revamp the Davis Cup in tennis. Piqué’s vision extends beyond traditional sports; he also invested in Spanish football club FC Andorra, aiming to elevate it through strategic investments. Piqué’s approach to business reflects a desire to shape sports for future generations, making him a notable example of an athlete who leverages his insight to impact entire industries.
5. Zlatan Ibrahimović – The Startup Investor with a Unique Approach
Known for his bold personality on and off the field, Zlatan Ibrahimović has taken equally bold steps in business. The Swedish striker has invested in ventures that resonate with his image. He owns a stake in Bethard, a sports betting company, and created his own mobile game, Zlatan Legends, showcasing his appeal among fans. Ibrahimović has also invested in A-Z Sportswear, demonstrating his interest in fashion and lifestyle branding. His business endeavors are as unconventional as his persona, proving that his ambition extends beyond football and into high-risk, high-reward ventures.
6. Neymar Jr. – Gaming and Beyond
Brazilian superstar Neymar Jr. has leveraged his popularity into various business ventures that align with his interests. Known for his love of gaming, Neymar has collaborated with online gaming platforms and built a large following on streaming platforms like Twitch. He’s partnered with Epic Games’ Fortnite and has invested in eSports, bridging his football fame with gaming culture. Neymar’s business choices reflect his personality and allow him to connect deeply with his fanbase while creating revenue streams that will support him beyond his football career.
Conclusion: From Field to Fortune
The success of these players off the field showcases a broader trend among elite athletes, recognizing the power of strategic investing. Whether through hospitality, sports clubs, or gaming, these footballers are setting themselves up for long-term success and financial security. They’re building empires that go beyond the game, showing future generations of players that careful investment planning can create a sustainable income long after the final whistle.
In a world where the influence of athletes reaches beyond sports, these footballers exemplify how to turn goals into gains. Their ventures contribute not only to their own wealth but also to various industries, proving that with vision, they can score big in any arena.
