No longer confined to courts, fields, or stadiums, today’s elite competitors are redefining what it means to win. Increasingly, professional athletes are stepping into the business world, trading jerseys for boardrooms and endorsements for equity. The transition from sports to entrepreneurship is not only natural for many but also highly strategic.
Athletes possess unique qualities that lend themselves to business success. With their fame, networks, capital, and mindset for performance, they are building brands, launching startups, and investing in diverse sectors.
Why Athletes Make Strong Entrepreneurs
The traits that make someone excel in professional sports are often the same traits required for business leadership. Athletes operate under intense pressure, maintain strict discipline, and constantly work toward measurable goals. These qualities align well with the demands of entrepreneurship.
Moreover, athletes have cultivated personal brands that command widespread attention. Their platforms offer immediate visibility and credibility, making it easier to market products, attract investors, and build communities around their businesses.
Many professional athletes are also introduced to financial planning and brand management early in their careers. Through sponsorships, endorsement deals, and financial advisors, they often gain exposure to wealth management and business operations before leaping into it themselves.
Top Professional Athletes Who Took the Entrepreneurial Leap
LeBron James
LeBron James is a model of modern athlete entrepreneurship. He co-founded SpringHill Company, a media powerhouse producing films, television, and digital content. He’s part-owner of Fenway Sports Group, the organization behind the Boston Red Sox and Liverpool FC. His investment track record includes early backing of companies like Beats by Dre, Tonal, and Lyft, highlighting his knack for spotting rising brands and aligning with market trends.
Serena Williams
Serena Williams has built a multifaceted business empire. She launched Serena Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on supporting early-stage startups, particularly those led by women and minorities. Her ventures include Wyn Beauty, the pain relief brand Will Perform, and the production company Two Six Productions. She has invested in platforms like MasterClass and Lolli, further extending her impact across sectors.
Shaquille O’Neal
Shaq is one of the most prolific athlete-entrepreneurs. His franchise investments include Five Guys, Papa John’s, Auntie Anne’s, and a Krispy Kreme location in Atlanta. He’s built a diverse business empire that includes the Big Chicken restaurant chain, more than 150 car washes, and 40 fitness centers open around the clock. His diverse portfolio reflects a strategy focused on scalability and mainstream appeal.
Venus Williams
Venus Williams has developed a range of business ventures. She leads V Starr, a commercial and residential interior design firm, and EleVen by Venus Williams, her activewear line. She launched Happy Viking, a plant-based superfood company, and also holds a share in Palazzo, a business centered around hospitality. In addition, she is a franchise owner of Jamba.
Kobe Bryant (Legacy)
Kobe Bryant’s business legacy continues to shape the entrepreneurial landscape. He co-founded Bryant Stibel & Co., a venture capital firm with investments in Dell, Alibaba, Epic Games, and LegalZoom. Through Kobe Inc. and Granity Studios, he focused on storytelling and content creation. Other ventures included Mamba Sports Academy and Art of Sport. He also held equity in BodyArmor, which Coca-Cola later acquired.
Tom Brady
Tom Brady’s business interests align with his brand of wellness and peak performance. He founded TB12, a wellness company offering products and services for athletes. His other ventures include Brady Brand (apparel), Religion of Sports (media), 199 Productions (film), CardVault (collectibles), and GOAT Gummies (nutrition).
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo operates an international business portfolio. Under the CR7 brand, he markets clothing, fragrances, and gyms. He co-founded the EURAKULIS app and owns stakes in Alathletes, the hair transplant clinic chain Insparya, and the upscale Tatel Restaurants. His ventures reflect a lifestyle-focused approach rooted in personal excellence and global recognition.
Alex Rodriguez
Alex Rodriguez is the founder of A-Rod Corp, which spans real estate, sports, and entertainment. He also operates Newport Property Construction and has invested in high-profile companies such as Vita Coco, Wheels Up, and Snapchat. His business philosophy centers on diversification and long-term value creation.
Maria Sharapova
Sharapova is the founder of Sugarpova, a premium candy brand that combines indulgence and clean ingredients. She has invested in Bala Bangles (wearable fitness gear), Therabody (recovery technology), and Supergoop! (sunscreen and skincare). Her portfolio emphasizes wellness, performance, and innovation.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
While also a Hollywood star, Dwayne Johnson’s business ventures stand on their own. He co-founded Seven Bucks Productions, ZOA Energy, and Teremana Tequila. His partnership with Under Armour created Project Rock, a fitness apparel and gear line. He also acquired ownership of the XFL Football League and invested in Acorns, a micro-investing platform.
Challenges Athletes Face When Transitioning to Business
Despite their advantages, athletes face real obstacles when entering the business world. For one, the environment is entirely different from the structured world of professional sports. Decision-making under uncertainty, managing employees, and navigating markets require a different skill set.
There is also the matter of public perception. Some athletes are not initially taken seriously as entrepreneurs. Overcoming stereotypes and proving competence can be a hurdle, especially in highly competitive industries.
Finally, many athletes must learn the basics of business operations, from finance and legal structures to team building and product development. Surrounding themselves with trusted advisors and experienced partners becomes essential.
Lessons Learned from These Athlete Entrepreneurs
A recurring theme among athlete business success stories is the value of personal branding. Authenticity, when paired with strategic marketing, creates lasting value.
These athletes also show the importance of choosing the right partners. Whether it is venture capital firms, co-founders, or brand consultants, strong alliances can accelerate growth and reduce risk.
Perhaps the most important lesson is a long-term vision. The most successful athlete-entrepreneurs understand that fame is fleeting, but businesses can outlast playing careers. Their moves reflect a desire to create generational wealth and impact far beyond their sports accolades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all athletes turn to business after retirement?
Not all athletes pursue entrepreneurship, but many do, especially those who seek to build financial security and legacy beyond their playing careers.
What are the common industries that athletes invest in?
Athletes often invest in food franchises, fitness and wellness, apparel, real estate, technology, and consumer goods.
How do athlete-entrepreneurs handle business challenges?
They often rely on professional advisors, mentorship, and strategic partnerships. Their experience in managing pressure and teams also helps them navigate the complexities of business.