In today’s world, athletes are doing much more than just dominating on the field or court—they're making big moves in the business world too. Whether it’s launching clothing lines, investing in tech startups, or building restaurant empires, these sports stars are proving their talents go far beyond their athletic abilities. They’re using their fame and resources to create businesses that are just as impressive as their sports careers.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top athletes that have turned their passions into successful brands and companies. From fashion to entertainment and everything in between, these entrepreneurial athletes are showing the world they’ve got what it takes to win, both on and off the field.
When it comes to athlete entrepreneurs, Michael Jordan is the gold standard. One of the biggest sports sponsorship deals of all time, his collaboration with Nike to create the Jordan Brand revolutionized the sportswear industry.
What started as a basketball shoe line in the 1980s has grown into a multi-billion-dollar empire, extending beyond footwear into apparel, accessories, and even professional sports team ownership.
The iconic "Jumpman" logo has become a symbol of both athletic excellence and cultural influence. Jordan’s business savvy has helped him transcend his basketball legacy, turning him into one of the most successful athlete-entrepreneurs in history.
Since retiring from the NBA, Michael Jordan has continued to build his brand, making his iconic range a cornerstone of Nike’s success.
Aside from the Jordan brand, MJ has invested in a range of other businesses including restaurants and automotive dealerships, and currently holds an equity stake in DraftKings where he sits on the board as a special advisor.
Magic Johnson is not only a basketball legend but also a powerhouse in the business world. After retiring from the NBA, Magic turned his attention to building Magic Johnson Enterprises, a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate with interests spanning real estate, movie theaters, sports franchises, and even Starbucks.
His investments have not only generated significant wealth but also made a lasting impact on underserved communities by bringing jobs and services to urban areas.
Magic’s entrepreneurial journey has been about more than just making money—he’s used his business ventures to drive positive social change. From being a basketball icon to a successful businessman, Magic Johnson has shown that the same leadership skills that made him great on the court can also lead to triumph in the boardroom.
LeBron James is as much a force in business as he is on the basketball court. Beyond his superstar status in the NBA, LeBron has built a diverse business portfolio, with his media company, SpringHill Entertainment, being one of the standout successes.
SpringHill is behind hit projects like Space Jam: A New Legacy and the critically acclaimed documentary What’s My Name: Muhammad Ali. LeBron’s influence in the entertainment industry is growing, with a focus on telling powerful stories that resonate with diverse audiences.
In addition to his media ventures, LeBron made a smart investment in Blaze Pizza, one of the fastest-growing pizza chains in the U.S., where he is not only a spokesperson but also a significant investor. His strategic business moves, coupled with partnerships like his lifetime deal with Nike, have helped him build a business empire that mirrors his dominance on the basketball court.
LeBron’s reach extends to social media as well, where he is one of the most followed sports stars on Instagram. His massive following allows him to amplify his business ventures and personal brand, creating a direct connection with millions of fans worldwide. This combination of business acumen and global influence has made LeBron not only a basketball icon but also a leading figure in both the entertainment and corporate worlds.
A true powerhouse both on and off the tennis court, Serena Williams has taken her competitive spirit into the world of business with Serena Ventures. Focused on venture capital, Serena has strategically invested in more than 50 companies, with a strong emphasis on supporting women- and minority-led startups.
Her portfolio includes a wide range of industries, from fintech to wellness and education, showcasing her keen eye for emerging trends and innovation.
What sets Serena apart is her dedication to empowering others, using her platform to bring attention to underrepresented voices in the business world. Her efforts extend beyond just investment—Serena is passionate about mentorship, helping entrepreneurs reach their full potential.
As she continues to evolve her business empire, Serena Williams is proving that her influence goes far beyond tennis.
Venus Williams has channelled her passion for fashion and design into two successful ventures: her activewear brand, EleVen, and her interior design firm, V Starr.
EleVen is all about empowering women to feel strong and confident, offering high-performance athletic wear that blends style with functionality. Venus has been hands-on with the brand, ensuring it reflects her own values of self-expression and excellence.
On the design side, V Starr has become a respected name in the interior design industry, taking on both residential and commercial projects. Venus’s eye for detail and aesthetics has helped her firm grow, proving that her talents extend well beyond tennis.
With EleVen and V Starr, she’s built brands that celebrate both strength and creativity, showing that she’s just as competitive and successful in business as she is on the court.
Known for his larger-than-life personality, Shaquille O’Neal has built an impressive portfolio of franchise investments that have made him one of the most successful athlete-entrepreneurs.
His diverse business ventures include ownership stakes in over 100 locations of popular franchises like Five Guys, Auntie Anne’s, and 24 Hour Fitness. Beyond food and fitness, Shaq has also made strategic investments in tech companies like Google and Ring, further expanding his reach into the tech world.
What sets his approach apart is his hands-on involvement in his ventures, always ensuring that his investments align with his personal brand. Shaq’s ability to diversify his portfolio and make smart, long-term business decisions has helped him build a fortune that far exceeds his earnings from basketball. His entrepreneurial spirit and business success make him a standout example of an athlete turned mogul.
With a reputation for precision and excellence on the tennis court, Roger Federer has applied those same principles to his ventures off the court, particularly with his investment in the Swiss athletic shoe brand, On Running.
Federer didn’t just lend his name to the brand—he took an active role in product development, helping to create the Roger Pro, a shoe that reflects both his athletic experience and the brand’s commitment to innovation.
On Running has grown rapidly, becoming a favorite among athletes and casual wearers alike for its unique cloud-based cushioning technology. Federer's involvement has boosted the brand’s global profile, helping it gain traction in the competitive sportswear market. His strategic investment in On Running showcases his ability to identify emerging trends and take a hands-on approach to growing a business, mirroring the discipline that made him a tennis legend.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time, Tom Brady has expanded his winning mindset into the wellness industry with TB12, a health and performance company.
Focused on holistic health and fitness, TB12 offers everything from personalized training programs to nutritional products and recovery tools. The brand emphasizes Brady's own approach to longevity and performance, promoting pliability, recovery, and overall well-being.
Brady's vision for TB12 is not just about athletic performance but about helping people of all ages and fitness levels achieve better health. His personal involvement and endorsement have made the brand highly popular, particularly with those seeking to improve their long-term wellness.
Through TB12, Brady has translated his personal success into a business that champions the benefits of sustainable health practices, proving that his leadership extends far beyond the football field.
After dominating both the wrestling ring and Hollywood, Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson turned his focus to business, launching successful ventures like Teremana Tequila and ZOA Energy.
Teremana, Johnson's premium small-batch tequila brand, quickly gained a loyal following due to its smooth taste and his dedicated marketing efforts. Johnson’s personal connection to the brand, emphasizing its handcrafted, high-quality production, has helped it stand out in the competitive spirits industry.
Additionally, he co-founded ZOA Energy, a health-conscious energy drink targeting fitness enthusiasts. With his massive social media presence and inspirational persona, The Rock has been able to effectively promote both ventures, making them household names.
His success in these industries reflects his work ethic, passion for his products, and his ability to connect with a wide range of consumers, solidifying his status as a top-tier entrepreneur.
Beyond his business pursuits, Johnson has achieved remarkable success in Hollywood. After transitioning from professional wrestling, he became one of the most successful athletes who have turned to acting.
Johnson has since positioned himself as one of the highest-grossing actors in the world, starring in blockbuster franchises like Fast & Furious and Jumanji. His career in acting, coupled with his business ventures, showcases his ability to excel across multiple industries, making him a true multi-hyphenate talent.
Best known for his boxing career, George Foreman became a household name in a different arena with the launch of the George Foreman Grill. Initially skeptical, Foreman’s partnership with the brand turned into one of the most successful athlete-business ventures ever.
The grill, known for its convenience and healthy cooking style, became a huge hit, selling over 100 million units worldwide.
Foreman’s involvement in the product helped transform it from just another kitchen gadget to an iconic tool for home cooks everywhere. His friendly, approachable marketing made the grill a staple in homes, and his business acumen led to a massive financial windfall when he sold his rights to the product for hundreds of millions.
The success of the Foreman Grill proves that with the right opportunity and savvy, athletes can build businesses with just as much impact as their sports careers.
After an illustrious baseball career, Alex Rodriguez shifted his focus to the business world, founding A-Rod Corp, a company that spans various industries, including real estate, sports, and entertainment.
Rodriguez has built a real estate portfolio worth hundreds of millions, investing in residential and commercial properties across the U.S. His company also explores investments in tech and wellness, reflecting his desire to diversify and take on new challenges.
Rodriguez's success as an entrepreneur comes from his strategic approach and ability to partner with leading companies in different sectors. He’s also made headlines with his involvement in the sports world, including his recent bid to buy the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA team. By applying the same discipline and drive that made him a baseball star, Rodriguez has carved out a significant presence in the business world.
Lewis Hamilton has taken his passion for sustainability and social issues into the business world with Neat Burger, a plant-based fast-food chain. As a vocal advocate for veganism and environmental responsibility, Hamilton helped launch Neat Burger to offer eco-friendly and healthier fast-food options.
The chain has quickly gained popularity, reflecting the growing consumer interest in ethical eating and sustainability, aligning with Hamilton’s personal mission.
In addition to food, Hamilton has ventured into fashion, partnering with Tommy Hilfiger to design collections that reflect his bold, eclectic style. His influence in the fashion industry highlights his commitment to inclusivity and innovation.
Hamilton’s business ventures, which blend his passions for sustainability and creativity, reveal a side of him that goes beyond racing, demonstrating his drive to make a positive impact across multiple industries.
Derek Jeter made a unique pivot after his storied baseball career, founding The Players' Tribune, a digital media platform that puts athletes in control of their own stories.
Instead of going the traditional business route, Jeter focused on giving athletes a voice, allowing them to share personal insights, opinions, and experiences directly with their fans. The platform quickly gained traction, becoming a trusted source for athlete-driven content that goes beyond standard media narratives.
Jeter’s move into the media world demonstrated his vision for athlete empowerment and storytelling. The Players' Tribune has since expanded its reach, featuring contributions from top athletes across various sports. Through this venture, Jeter has shown that his influence extends well beyond the baseball field, reshaping how athletes engage with the public and how their stories are told.
After dominating the world of athletics, Usain Bolt turned his attention to business, focusing on both personal care and sustainable transportation.
He co-founded Champion Shave, a razor company aimed at providing affordable, high-quality grooming products to a global market. This venture reflects his goal of making self-care accessible and affordable for all.
Bolt didn’t stop there—he also co-launched Bolt Mobility, an electric scooter company focused on offering eco-friendly transportation solutions in urban areas. His move into the mobility industry highlights his commitment to sustainability and innovative technology.
These ventures show Bolt’s ability to transition from track star to successful entrepreneur, with a clear focus on improving both everyday routines and urban living.
Andy Murray’s business path has been shaped by his deep connection to the world of sports. After making a name for himself on the tennis court, Murray co-founded 77 Sports Management, a company designed to support up-and-coming athletes.
The firm focuses on nurturing talent across a range of sports, providing guidance on everything from sponsorship deals to career development.
In addition to sports management, Murray has also invested in various startups through crowdfunding platforms, supporting innovative businesses in areas such as health, technology, and sustainability. His keen interest in fostering both athletic and business talent showcases his dedication to leaving a lasting legacy, not only in tennis but in the broader sports and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Conor McGregor's business success mirrors his larger-than-life persona. After becoming a global sensation in the world of mixed martial arts, McGregor ventured into the spirits industry with Proper No. Twelve, his own brand of Irish whiskey. Launched in 2018, the brand quickly became a major player in the market, fueled by McGregor's charismatic promotion and loyal fanbase.
After growing Proper No. Twelve internationally, McGregor and his partners sold their share in the business for a reported $600 million in 2021. In the same year, McGregor launched his own brand of Irish stout called Forged. Alongside the drinks business, McGregor has been steadily building a portfolio of pubs and restaurants in Dublin, including the Black Forge Inn which has become a favorite spot for celebrities in the city.
Other business ventures include the McGregor FAST fitness app and platform, and part ownership of TIDL, a plant based sports recovery spray. In April 2024, McGregor’s sports promotion company also took a stake in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).
McGregor’s transition from the octagon to the boardroom has been as aggressive and ambitious as his fighting style, establishing him as one of the most successful athlete-entrepreneurs in recent years.
Steph Curry’s impact stretches beyond basketball, with SC30 Inc. serving as the hub for his personal brand, business ventures, and philanthropy. The company oversees everything from Curry’s endorsement deals to his investments in tech and lifestyle brands.
Curry’s ambitions don’t stop there. With Unanimous Media, he’s entered the world of entertainment, producing films, TV shows, and documentaries. The company’s mission is to highlight inspirational and family-friendly stories, aligning with Curry’s personal values.
One of Unanimous Media’s standout projects is Stephen Curry: Underrated, a documentary that chronicles Curry’s rise from an overlooked college player to an NBA superstar. Widely regarded as one of the greatest sports documentaries, the film not only celebrates his basketball achievements but also focuses on the perseverance and determination that have defined his journey.
Rather than following a conventional business path, Russell Westbrook leaned into his passion for fashion with the creation of his streetwear brand, Honor The Gift. Known for his bold and fearless personal style, Westbrook designed the brand to reflect his upbringing and cultural influences.
Each collection tells a story, rooted in themes of resilience and self-expression. His hands-on involvement in the creative process has helped the brand gain traction, earning it a loyal following among fans of streetwear.
Westbrook’s focus on authenticity and design shows that he’s bringing the same energy and attention to detail to fashion as he does to basketball. His unique approach sets him apart in the fashion industry.
Kobe Bryant’s entrepreneurial ventures were as ambitious as his basketball career. In 2013, he co-founded Bryant Stibel, a venture capital firm that focuses on technology, media, and data-driven businesses.
This move allowed Bryant to invest in forward-thinking companies, ensuring his financial success off the court. His eye for innovation was evident in the firm’s diverse portfolio, which included some of the most exciting companies in their respective industries.
Another major success for Bryant was his early investment in BodyArmor, a sports drink company that went on to become a multi-billion-dollar brand. The sale of BodyArmor to Coca-Cola further demonstrated Bryant’s sharp business instincts and his ability to pick winners. Through Bryant Stibel and BodyArmor, Kobe made his mark not just in sports but in the world of entrepreneurship.
Tiger Woods has turned his legendary career into a successful business venture through TGR Ventures. This umbrella company manages his diverse interests, including TGR Design, which focuses on designing world-class golf courses.
His love for the game and eye for detail are evident in the designs, which have earned critical acclaim for both their beauty and playability. Woods has also ventured into the restaurant business with his flagship property, The Woods Jupiter, which blends casual dining with a touch of luxury.
Beyond business, Woods has channeled his success into philanthropic efforts through the TGR Foundation. Founded in 1996, the foundation focuses on education, providing underserved students with opportunities through STEM programs, scholarships, and mentoring.
The TGR Foundation has empowered thousands of young people to pursue higher education and develop essential skills for the future, reflecting Woods’ commitment to giving back and creating lasting impact beyond the world of sports.
Kevin Durant is making waves far beyond the basketball court with Thirty Five Ventures, the company he co-founded to manage his wide-ranging investments. What sets Durant apart is his focus on technology, media, and innovative startups.
Through his firm, he’s backed everything from digital sports platforms to tech-forward health and wellness brands. Thirty Five Ventures also co-produces films and documentaries, highlighting stories that resonate with Durant’s interests and beliefs.
Durant’s approach to business is as calculated as his game on the court. His willingness to invest in groundbreaking ideas and collaborate with creative partners has positioned him as a leader in both the venture capital and entertainment worlds.
David Beckham’s business savvy became clear when he co-founded Inter Miami CF, bringing Major League Soccer to one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S. His involvement in the team goes beyond ownership—he played a key role in building the brand and culture around the club, helping to make it a global sensation.
But Beckham’s entrepreneurial journey extends beyond sports. Beckham Holdings manages his diverse portfolio of business ventures, which includes everything from luxury fashion collaborations to a successful grooming line.
Beckham’s ability to continuously evolve his brand post-soccer has solidified his place as a savvy businessman. His ventures in fashion, sports, and lifestyle showcase his versatility and influence.
Tony Hawk didn’t just pioneer the sport of skateboarding; he turned it into a multi-million-dollar industry. His company, Birdhouse Skateboards, remains one of the most popular brands in the sport, known for its quality and connection to Hawk’s name.
But his entrepreneurial efforts go much further. Hawk Inc., which oversees his many ventures, is responsible for everything from video games to skate parks. The "Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater" video game series was a breakout hit, bringing skateboarding into mainstream culture and earning millions worldwide.
Hawk’s ability to keep his brand authentic while growing it on a global scale has been key to his long-term success. His ventures, while diverse, all stay true to his skateboarding roots.
After a celebrated tennis career, Maria Sharapova switched gears and dove into the business world with the launch of Sugarpova, her premium candy brand. Her goal was to create a fun, high-end product that reflected her playful personality, and Sugarpova’s popularity quickly grew. In addition to candy, Sharapova has made a name for herself as an investor, particularly with her stake in Supergoop, a skincare brand focused on sun protection.
Sharapova’s entrepreneurial ventures have given her a new platform post-tennis, allowing her to stay connected to the health and wellness space while also indulging her love for creating unique products. These businesses showcase her creativity and keen business sense.
Athletes turning into entrepreneurs are proving that their talents extend far beyond their sport, building brands and companies that resonate across industries.
From innovative products to major business ventures, these athletes have shown that their winning mindset applies as much to business as it does to competition. As we watch them continue to succeed both on and off the field, it’s clear that their influence is only growing.
And if you’re inspired by these athlete-entrepreneurs, supporting them goes beyond following their business moves—there’s always the excitement of betting on your favorite athletes as they compete, using legal New York sportsbooks to get in on the action. Whether they're leading in business or dominating in sports, these athletes continue to give fans plenty to cheer for.
