From Courts to Empires: How Sports Stars Are Redefining Wealth
Discover the bold business moves of athletes like Naomi Osaka, Shaquille O’Neal, and Cristiano Ronaldo — and how their strategies can inspire your financial journey.
Sports Stars Saturday: Money Moves That Inspire
Did you know that some of the world’s top athletes are building business empires worth millions — beyond their sports careers? From Shaquille O’Neal’s franchise kingdom to Naomi Osaka’s groundbreaking skincare brand, these stars are redefining wealth through bold ventures and smart investments.
This week, dive into the fascinating financial moves of sports superstars — discover practical strategies you can apply, plus actionable tips to kick-start your own financial journey.
🌟 Athlete Money Moves: Big Plays Off the Field
🎾 Naomi Osaka: The $200M Brand Builder
Quick Overview: Not just a tennis champion — Osaka has leveraged her influence to become a powerhouse in business and branding.
Major Wins: With over $200 million in endorsements from major companies like Nike, Louis Vuitton, and Mastercard, Naomi’s reach stretches far beyond the tennis courts. But she hasn’t stopped at partnerships — recognizing the lack of skincare options for people with melanated skin, she launched Kinlò, a brand dedicated to sun protection and skin health.
Deeper Dive: Osaka took a hands-on approach, working closely with dermatologists and using her platform to advocate for sun safety in communities often overlooked by the cosmetics industry. This authenticity has driven impressive brand growth and media attention, making her a role model for athlete entrepreneurs everywhere.
Industry Insight: The skincare market could reach $207B globally by 2030 (CAGR: 5.5%). Osaka’s success signals the power of solving real-world problems and highlighting underserved audiences.
Takeaway: Identify and address market gaps — whether through a side project, a product line, or a service. Like Osaka, focusing on authenticity and purpose can set you apart and open new income streams.
Read more about Kinlò Skincare opportunities →
🏀 Shaquille O’Neal: The King of Franchises
Quick Overview: “Big Aristotle” has always thought big — even after basketball. Rather than resting on his NBA earnings, Shaq strategically invested in franchises across America.
Major Wins: Shaq is famously open about owning hundreds of Five Guys, Auntie Anne’s, and Papa John’s restaurants. He’s also a part-owner of fitness centers, car washes, and Krispy Kreme locations, not to mention investments in Google pre-IPO and other tech startups. Shaq’s real estate portfolio includes everything from residential to commercial properties, demonstrating his wide-ranging financial vision.
Deeper Dive: Shaq didn’t just throw money at businesses , he educates himself thoroughly before investing. He regularly visits his franchised locations, talks to employees, and promotes from within. His advice: “Never invest in something you don’t understand.” This hands-on approach and willingness to start small, sometimes even working behind the counter at his restaurants, built trust and ensured lasting growth.
Industry Insight: U.S. franchises generate $800B+ every year. Franchising is a sustainable way to diversify income and build wealth over time.
Takeaway: Franchise opportunities exist at every price point. Start by researching local franchises or franchise ETFs to get a feel for the industry, just as Shaq did, and be prepared to get involved at a ground level for steady, long-term results.
Explore how Shaq built his empire →
🏠 Simone Biles: The Real Estate Maven
Quick Overview: Known for her gravity-defying routines, Simone Biles is also making strategic moves in real estate investing.
Major Wins: Already the proud owner of several luxury homes in Texas, Biles has focused on acquiring properties that appreciate over time and provide both comfort and lasting value. She often shares glimpses of her home on social media, showcasing a keen eye for design and investment.
Deeper Dive: Simone has been thoughtful about building her property portfolio, focusing on up-and-coming areas and seeking guidance from trusted advisors. She invests not only in her own homes but also in rental properties, generating passive income alongside her sports endorsements. Simone’s approach is methodical: she researches neighborhoods, keeps an eye on market trends, and is unafraid to start with smaller investments as she builds confidence and knowledge.
Industry Insight: U.S. real estate is projected to grow 4.5% annually through 2030. Even small, first-time investments can multiply over years.
Takeaway: Real estate isn’t just for the ultra-rich. Try out REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts) or fractional ownership platforms to start building your own property portfolio — no need for a gold medal to get in the game!
Take a peek at Simone’s real estate journey →
🏨 Cristiano Ronaldo: The Hotelier
Quick Overview: From electrifying soccer fields to luxury hotel lobbies, Cristiano Ronaldo knows how to make his brand work for him.
Major Wins: Ronaldo’s venture into hospitality with CR7 Hotels spans Lisbon, Madrid, and Madeira, blending modern style and athlete-inspired amenities for fans and travelers alike. Each hotel is not only a tribute to his fame but a savvy business move that leverages his global following.
Deeper Dive: Cristiano was deeply involved in the hotels’ branding and design — focusing on a winning guest experience. His business model cleverly combines sports tourism (think memorabilia, themed gyms, and CR7-inspired suites) with international travel trends. Ronaldo also uses social media marketing to showcase hotel openings, special events, and collaborations, keeping occupancy rates high.
Industry Insight: The luxury hotel market could hit $160B by 2030 (CAGR: 6.2%). Athlete-owned properties are uniquely positioned for instant buzz and loyal customers.
Takeaway: If you have a brand, skill, or passion, consider how it might translate into hospitality, retail, or other new ventures. Start by learning about the industries you love and exploring ways your unique experiences can drive business success.
Get inspired by Ronaldo’s business ventures →
⚽ Megan Rapinoe: The Equity Advocate
Quick Overview: Superstar on and off the field, Megan Rapinoe uses her success to advocate for inclusion and impactful investing.
Major Wins: Beyond soccer, Rapinoe invests in women-led startups (like Re-Inc, which she co-founded), sports recovery brands, and companies focused on mental health, such as Real. She actively supports Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) funds and makes equity a central theme in both her financial and philanthropic activities.
Deeper Dive: Rapinoe doesn’t just sign checks — she uses her platform to spotlight underfunded founders and marginalized groups. Her company, Re-Inc, is mission-driven, offering eco-conscious, ethically-produced fashion and lifestyle goods. She’s vocal about the challenges women and minorities face accessing venture capital, using her story and success to open doors for others.
Industry Insight: Just 2.3% of VC funds went to women-led startups in 2023, meaning there’s huge potential for investors dedicated to equity and sustainability.
Takeaway: Merge profit and purpose by seeking out investments that match your values. Platforms like Ellevest or ESG funds allow everyday investors to join in — and support a fairer financial world.
Discover how Rapinoe empowers her investments →
💡 Personal Finance Tips: What You Can Learn from the Pros
Budget Like a Champion: Even the richest athletes set budgets. Apps like Mint and YNAB make tracking easier.
Invest in What You Know: Shaq’s franchise wins started with what he understood. Begin in industries you follow or have direct experience in.
Build a Legacy: LeBron James and Serena Williams plan for generational wealth with trusts and real estate. Secure your future by investing in appreciating assets or setting up a family fund.
🎮 Interactive Fun: Test Your Sports Finance IQ!
Test Your Sports Finance IQ (Answers are revealed at the bottom of this post!)
Question 1: Which NBA star turned a $1 million investment in BodyArmor into $400 million when Coca-Cola acquired the company?
A) Michael Jordan
B) Kobe Bryant
C) Kevin Durant
D) Steph Curry
Question 2: Which soccer legend owns a chain of luxury hotels under their personal brand?
A) Lionel Messi
B) Cristiano Ronaldo
C) Neymar Jr.
D) David Beckham
Question 3: Which tennis star launched a skincare line specifically for melanated skin?
A) Serena Williams
B) Naomi Osaka
C) Venus Williams
D) Coco Gauff
🗳️ Poll: What’s Your Next Financial Move?
What’s your top money goal right now? Drop your answer in the comments!
Start a side hustle (e.g., freelancing or selling products)
Invest in real estate (e.g., REITs or fractional ownership)
Explore franchise opportunities (food, fitness, or retail)
Align investments with your values (ESG funds or women-led startups)
📋 Key Takeaways
Diversify your income streams (like Shaq and Ronaldo).
Invest with your values (take a cue from Rapinoe).
Start small, dream big — every empire begins with that first bold move.
🙌 Thanks for Reading & Get Involved!
Inspired by these sports stars? Take your first step today, whether it’s launching a side project, researching investment platforms, or just setting a new budget. Smart money moves start with action!
Share this edition with your friends and inspire them to level up their financial game too.
What’s your next financial goal? Let us know your thoughts or questions in the comments. We love hearing from you!
Trivia Answers
Question 1: Which NBA star turned a $1 million investment in BodyArmor into $400 million when Coca-Cola acquired the company?
Answer: B) Kobe Bryant
Question 2: Which soccer legend owns a chain of luxury hotels under their personal brand?
Answer: B) Cristiano Ronaldo
Question 3: Which tennis star launched a skincare line specifically for melanated skin?
Answer: B) Naomi Osaka
What’s your top money goal right now?