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10 Underappreciated Athletes Who’ve Became Business Tycoons

October 24, 2025 By Amanda Blankenship Leave a Comment

athlete entrepreneurs — Image Source: Shutterstock

While stars like Michael Jordan and LeBron James dominate headlines for their billion-dollar empires, many lesser-known athletes have quietly built impressive fortunes off the field. These underappreciated sports figures used discipline, vision, and brand savvy to transform their athletic success into business dominance. From real estate moguls to tech investors, they prove that success doesn’t end when the final whistle blows. Their stories show how athletes can evolve into powerful entrepreneurs when they channel the same drive that made them great competitors. Let’s look at ten athletes who turned overlooked careers into thriving business empires.

1. Venus Williams — From Tennis Court to Corporate Boardroom

Venus Williams is often overshadowed by her sister Serena, but her business acumen deserves just as much recognition. She founded EleVen by Venus, a successful activewear brand, and also runs V Starr Interiors, an interior design firm that’s worked with major hotel chains. Her portfolio extends into wellness and media, reflecting her strategic approach to brand longevity. Venus built her companies around empowerment, proving athletes can use their platforms to promote lifestyle, not just performance. Her entrepreneurial vision has made her one of the most successful female athletes in business.

2. Nnamdi Asomugha — NFL Cornerback Turned Producer

Best known for his shutdown defense in the NFL, Nnamdi Asomugha has quietly become a force in Hollywood. After retiring from football, he co-founded a production company and produced award-nominated films such as Harriet and Sylvie’s Love. Asomugha’s eye for meaningful storytelling has earned him critical acclaim and respect beyond sports circles. His business success comes from translating discipline and focus from the field to film. He’s proof that smart reinvention can create a second act as powerful as the first.

3. Alex Rodriguez — The Reinvention of A-Rod

Though his baseball career was controversial, Alex Rodriguez rebuilt his image through bold investments. His firm, A-Rod Corp, manages ventures in real estate, fitness, and technology, helping grow a portfolio worth hundreds of millions. A-Rod’s keen business sense helped him recover from scandals and become a respected investor. He’s also a co-owner of the NBA’s Minnesota Timberwolves, diversifying his influence across industries. His turnaround story shows that reputation can be rebuilt with a smart business strategy and persistence.

4. Shaquille O’Neal — The Ultimate Franchise King

While Shaq’s personality made him a global icon, his business savvy made him a multimillionaire mogul. He invested early in franchises like Five Guys, Papa John’s, and Auntie Anne’s, owning hundreds of locations nationwide. His portfolio also includes tech ventures, real estate, and even a major role on the board of Papa John’s. Shaq approaches investing with humor and humility but operates with serious financial intelligence. He turned his charisma into a brand that consumers—and corporations—trust.

5. Maria Sharapova — From Grand Slams to Sweet Success

Maria Sharapova turned her fame and precision from tennis into a thriving candy company, Sugarpova. What started as a boutique confectionery evolved into a multimillion-dollar global brand sold in over 30 countries. Beyond sweets, she’s made strategic investments in wellness and tech startups. Her approach to branding emphasizes authenticity and lifestyle over celebrity endorsement. Sharapova’s sharp marketing instincts have helped her outperform many of her higher-profile peers in post-career business ventures.

6. Magic Johnson — The Visionary Behind Urban Renewal

Magic Johnson is best known for his Lakers legacy, but his business empire might be even more impressive. Through Magic Johnson Enterprises, he’s invested in movie theaters, Starbucks franchises, and real estate projects revitalizing urban communities. His ability to bridge culture and commerce made him one of America’s most influential Black entrepreneurs. Johnson also became a part-owner of several sports franchises, including the Los Angeles Dodgers. His career shows how community-driven business can yield both impact and profit.

7. Carmelo Anthony — Investing With Purpose

While Carmelo Anthony’s NBA career earned respect, his business foresight might be his true legacy. Through Melo7 Tech Partners, he’s invested in emerging industries like digital media, sports tech, and fashion. His strategy focuses on long-term innovation rather than flashy returns. Anthony also promotes financial literacy among athletes, using his platform to educate about wealth building. He’s become a model for the modern athlete who sees beyond the game into generational impact.

8. Roger Staubach — The NFL’s Real Estate Pioneer

Long before multimillion-dollar athlete contracts were common, Roger Staubach built his fortune through real estate. After retiring from football, he launched The Staubach Company, which became one of the nation’s leading commercial real estate firms. In 2008, he sold it to Jones Lang LaSalle for over $600 million. Staubach’s story proves that financial success isn’t limited to today’s endorsement-rich athletes. His foresight made him one of the first sports figures to master post-career wealth creation.

9. Abby Wambach — Championing Leadership and Investment

Soccer legend Abby Wambach transitioned from the pitch to powerful entrepreneurship. She co-founded Angel City FC, the first majority-female-owned professional soccer team, and launched Wolfpack Endeavor, an organization promoting leadership equality. Her work emphasizes inclusion, mentorship, and social entrepreneurship. Wambach invests in startups that align with her advocacy for women and LGBTQ+ communities. She’s using her influence to change how business and leadership look in sports.

10. Blake Griffin — The Comedian Investor

Former NBA star Blake Griffin has built an unlikely but successful career blending comedy, entertainment, and investing. He founded a production company focusing on humor-driven content while also backing tech startups and wellness brands. His smart diversification shows how athletes can build sustainable careers outside traditional endorsements. Griffin’s humor and intellect give him a unique edge in connecting with younger audiences and innovative businesses. He’s redefining what “athlete entrepreneur” means in the digital age.

The Mindset That Turns Athletes Into Entrepreneurs

These athletes share a common trait—discipline that extends far beyond sports. They used the same focus that fueled championships to master markets, branding, and innovation. What sets them apart isn’t fame, but adaptability and a hunger to keep learning. Their paths prove that success isn’t limited to highlight reels—it’s built through resilience and vision. For anyone chasing a second act, these underappreciated legends are living proof that greatness doesn’t retire—it reinvents itself.

Which athlete-turned-entrepreneur do you think deserves more credit for their business success? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

What to Read Next

Amanda Blankenship

Amanda Blankenship is the Chief Editor for District Media. She frequently writes for a handful of blogs and loves to share her own personal finance story with others. When she isn’t typing away at her desk, she enjoys spending time with her daughter, son, husband, and dog. During her free time, you’re likely to find her with her nose in a book, hiking, or playing RPG video games.

Filed Under: Celebrities, Celebrity Net Worth Tagged With: athlete entrepreneurs, celebrity entrepreneurs, financial success, investing, sports business, underappreciated athletes

10 Celebrities Who Became Millionaires Through Smart Investments

June 11, 2024 By Stephen Kanaval Leave a Comment

While many celebrities amass considerable wealth through their primary careers in entertainment, some have taken their fortunes to new heights through savvy investments. These stars have leveraged their fame and financial acumen to create substantial wealth beyond their initial earnings. Their smart financial decisions and strategic investments have transformed them into successful entrepreneurs and investors. Here are ten celebrities who became millionaires through astute investments, showcasing the power of smart financial planning.

1. Ashton Kutcher: Tech Visionary

Ashton Kutcher is well-known for his acting career, but his investment portfolio has also garnered significant attention. Kutcher co-founded the venture capital firm A-Grade Investments, which has backed successful startups like Uber, Airbnb, and Spotify. His early investments in these tech giants have paid off handsomely, transforming him into a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Kutcher’s knack for identifying promising tech companies has significantly boosted his net worth. His success in the tech world showcases the potential of diversifying one’s investment portfolio beyond traditional entertainment earnings.

2. Jessica Alba: The Honest Entrepreneur

Jessica Alba transitioned from Hollywood to the business world with the launch of The Honest Company in 2011. The company, which focuses on eco-friendly and non-toxic household products (specifically diapers and baby products), quickly gained popularity and success. Alba’s stake in The Honest Company has made her a multimillionaire, with the company’s valuation soaring over the years. Her ability to leverage her celebrity status to build a brand that resonates with consumers highlights the power of smart business decisions. Alba’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to how celebrities can achieve financial success through strategic business ventures.

3. George Clooney: Liquor Legend

George Clooney co-founded the tequila brand Casamigos with friends Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman in 2013. Originally intended as a private collection for friends and family, the brand grew rapidly in popularity. In 2017, Casamigos was sold to Diageo for up to $1 billion, making Clooney one of the highest-paid actors not for his films but for his business acumen. Clooney’s venture into the spirits industry showcases the lucrative potential of celebrity-endorsed brands. His success with Casamigos underscores the value of investing in passion projects that align with personal interests.

4. Beyoncé: The Queen of Investments

Beyoncé has made several strategic investments that have significantly increased her wealth. She invested in the popular beverage company WTRMLN WTR and the vegan meal delivery service 22 Days Nutrition. Additionally, Beyoncé holds a stake in the music streaming service Tidal, which was acquired by Square, Inc. Her diverse investment portfolio demonstrates her keen business sense and ability to spot profitable opportunities. Beyoncé’s investments go beyond her music career, solidifying her status as a savvy businesswoman. Her financial acumen has played a crucial role in her continued success and wealth accumulation.

5. Oprah Winfrey: Media Mogul and Beyond

Oprah Winfrey’s investments extend far beyond her media empire. She has a significant stake in Weight Watchers (now WW International) and has also invested in the health food brand True Food Kitchen. Winfrey’s strategic investments have not only diversified her portfolio but also aligned with her personal brand and values. Her investment in Weight Watchers, in particular, saw a substantial return as the company’s stock surged following her endorsement. Oprah’s investment strategy highlights the importance of aligning investments with one’s personal brand and expertise.

6. Robert Downey Jr.: Sustainable Innovator

Robert Downey Jr. has used his wealth to invest in sustainable technology through his FootPrint Coalition, which aims to support companies focused on environmentally friendly innovations. Downey’s interest in sustainable tech aligns with his advocacy for environmental causes and positions him as a forward-thinking investor. His investments in this sector demonstrate a commitment to future-oriented industries that promise growth and positive impact. Downey’s strategic focus on sustainability showcases the potential of aligning investments with global trends and personal values.

7. Ellen DeGeneres: Real Estate Savvy

Ellen DeGeneres has turned her passion for real estate into a profitable venture. She and her wife, Portia de Rossi, have bought, renovated, and sold numerous high-end properties, earning substantial profits. DeGeneres’s keen eye for design and market trends has made her a successful real estate investor. Her ability to transform properties and sell them at a premium highlights the lucrative potential of the real estate market. DeGeneres’s real estate investments exemplify how celebrities can leverage their interests and expertise to build wealth.

8. Shaquille O’Neal: Business Behemoth

Shaquille O’Neal’s investment portfolio is as impressive as his basketball career. O’Neal has invested in various businesses, including a significant stake in Google’s pre-IPO shares, and has ownership in numerous franchises such as Five Guys, Auntie Anne’s, and Papa John’s. His diverse investments and strategic partnerships have significantly boosted his net worth. O’Neal’s business ventures demonstrate the importance of diversification and smart risk-taking in building a substantial fortune. His success off the court showcases the potential of strategic investments in various industries.

9. Serena Williams: Venture Capitalist

Serena Williams launched her own venture capital firm, Serena Ventures, which focuses on early-stage companies and has invested in over 30 startups. Her portfolio includes investments in tech companies, consumer goods, and health and wellness brands. Williams’s approach to investing emphasizes diversity and supporting companies led by women and minorities. Her success in venture capital underscores the potential of using one’s platform to support innovative and inclusive businesses. Williams’s investments reflect her commitment to fostering positive change while achieving financial success.

10. Will Smith: Diverse Portfolio

Will Smith has diversified his income through various smart investments. He co-founded the multimedia venture Overbrook Entertainment and has invested in numerous tech startups, including a stake in the e-sports organization Gen.G. Smith’s ability to identify and invest in emerging trends has significantly increased his wealth. His investment strategy highlights the importance of staying ahead of market trends and exploring new industries. Smith’s diverse investment portfolio exemplifies how celebrities can expand their financial success beyond their primary careers.

Learn from These A-Listers

These ten celebrities have demonstrated that smart investments can significantly amplify their wealth, often exceeding the earnings from their primary careers. Their success stories underscore the importance of diversification, strategic risk-taking, and aligning investments with personal values and emerging trends. By leveraging their financial acumen and making informed decisions, they have set a powerful example of how to build lasting wealth beyond the spotlight.

Stephen Kanaval

Stephen began his career as a Research Assistant at a reputable middle-market private equity firm, where he honed his skills in market research, financial analysis, and identifying investment opportunities. He then transitioned to full-time financial writing focusing on small-cap biotech innovation and digital payment solutions. Today, Stephen is a value-based retail investor and novice baseball statistician.

Filed Under: Celebrities Tagged With: celebrities, Celebrity Portfolios, investing

7 Investment Options That Are Just Right For Retirees

March 29, 2024 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

Retirement is that golden era when you can finally enjoy the fruits of your labor and watch the grass grow. But let’s be honest, after the 100th episode of your favorite 90s sitcom, even the sofa starts feeling a bit… well, less cushy. Here’s the scoop on seven investments that are perfect for your golden years. Just remember – this is not investment advice, just some helpful ideas!

1. The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Think of dividend-paying stocks as the gift that keeps on giving. You invest in a company, and bam! Every so often, they share a piece of their profit pie with you. It’s a win-win – you get a steady stream of income, and you still own your slice of the company. Perfect for a retiree looking to spice up their income without selling off assets.

2. Your Real Estate Empire Lite

If you’ve ever fancied being a real estate mogul, now’s your chance. Real estate income funds might just be your ticket. These funds pool money from investors to buy properties, and they distribute the rent among investors. It’s like owning real estate, but you get to keep your hands clean and your sleep uninterrupted!

3. The Snug Safety Blanket

For those who prefer their investments to be reliable and not flashy, treasury securities are a perfect match. They’re backed by the U.S. government and are about as safe as investments come. You won’t double your money overnight, but you’ll sleep soundly knowing it’s not going anywhere either.

4. The Retirement Paycheck

Annuities are the financial world’s equivalent of an all-you-can-eat buffet. You pay an upfront fee, and in return, you get a steady stream of income for a set period or even for life. It’s a way to ensure you keep getting a “paycheck” even when the work emails have long stopped. Just be prepared to put in a hefty initial amount.

5. The Steady Eddy

Not everyone’s looking for a rollercoaster ride in their retirement. For the Steady Eddies out there, a high-yield savings account offers a no-frills way to earn a bit more on your cash reserves. It’s not going to buy you a yacht but it’s much better than letting your money laze around, earning next to nothing.

6. Stability Meets Income

Investing in bonds means you’re giving a loan to either a corporation or a government entity. In return, they promise to pay you back with interest over a set period. This investment is essentially a steady and reliable stream of income, making it an attractive option for anyone who is looking for more financial stability.

7. Direct Impact Investing

Peer-to-peer lending platforms allow you to give direct loans to individuals or small businesses needing capital. This can mean you earn higher interest rates compared to traditional savings accounts. At the same time, you’re also helping someone’s dreams come true! Of course, you do need to be careful of the risk, particularly since these loans are not backed by traditional financial institutions.

Expanding Your Portfolio

Retirement doesn’t have to mean putting your feet up and watching the world go by – unless, of course, that’s your thing. If you’re looking to add a little to your financial portfolio, these seven investment options can give you some stability and income. Just remember, the key is to find the balance that works for you.

[Read more…]

Tamila McDonald

Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.

Filed Under: Investing, Personal Finance Tagged With: investing, investment, Retirement

15 Smart Financial Decisions to Make Before You Turn 40

March 21, 2024 By Tamila McDonald Leave a Comment

Turning 40 might make you feel like you’re under pressure to make all the right financial decisions as quickly as possible. But fear not! You don’t need to be Warren Buffet to make these right choices before you turn 40—all you need is a sprinkle of wisdom and a hearty dollop of determination. Whether you’re a savings superstar or a debt dodger, here are 15 smart financial decisions you should make before the big four-zero.

1. Embrace Budgeting

Forget what you know – budgeting isn’t just for accountants or Excel nerds. The right budget can be a lifesaver, as it can keep you from making unnecessary expenses and steer you toward your financial goals. You might be surprised at how much you’re actually spending or how much money you have left over!

2. Reduce Your High-Interest Debt

High-interest debt is one of the biggest obstacles to financial freedom, and there are some things you can do to stop it. Prioritize paying off these debts to reduce the amount of money you’re wasting on interest payments. This will free up more of your income for savings and investments, which can drastically help you on the way to financial freedom.

3. Build an Emergency Fund

If you follow anything on this list, make sure it’s this one! You won’t realize how important an emergency fund is until you have one. It’ll help you cover unexpected expenses without relying on credit cards or loans. You should aim to save three to six months’ worth of living expenses to give you a safety net for whatever the future may hold.

4. Start Saving for Retirement Now

Retirement might seem a while off, but the sooner you start saving for it, the better. Put some money into something like a 401(k) or IRA, especially if your employer offers matching contributions. These accounts benefit from compound interest over time, which will make your early contributions significantly more valuable. Start saving a small percentage of your income and gradually increase the amount as you make more money.

5. Begin Investing Wisely

Investing can be a powerful way to grow your wealth over the long term. We can’t tell you exactly where to invest your money, as that’s a completely personal decision. However, we do recommend speaking to a financial advisor to find out the best investments for your financial situation and personal goals.

6. Improve and Maintain Your Credit Score

A good credit score can save you thousands of dollars in interest over your lifetime. It’ll also help you get lower rates on mortgages, car loans, and other forms of credit. The best ways to get a good score are to pay your bills on time and keep your credit utilization low. You should also regularly check your report to make sure there are no mistakes.

7. Make Sure You Have Insurance

You might think that insurance is pointless. Sure, it’s more of a safety net than anything, but it’ll definitely help to protect your finances after unexpected accidents. Health insurance and auto insurance are legal necessities, and you should also consider life and homeowner’s insurance, too. Annually review your coverage to ensure it meets your current needs and doesn’t leave you exposed to any serious financial risks.

8. Think Carefully About Owning a Home

Owning a home can be a part of building wealth, but you should only do it when you’re financially ready. Is your job stable enough to cover the cost of one? How’s the local real estate market? Are you prepared (and willing) to handle any maintenance and unexpected repairs? There are a ton of questions to consider, and you should also be mindful of additional costs like taxes and insurance.

9. Practice Living Below Your Means

Another important thing to remember is to live below your means. Spend less than you earn and avoid unnecessary debt. In the short term, this might seem frustrating, but it’ll help you in the long term by allowing you to save and invest more. Focus on spending money on things that bring true value and happiness to your life.

10. Educate Yourself Financially

Nothing beats a strong understanding of personal finance.If you’ve got some extra time, invest it in learning on https://cangafltd.com/ about things like budgeting and investing. There are plenty of free resources, like online courses and podcasts, to help you make informed financial decisions. You can even visit your local library to see if they have any courses running.

11. Avoid Lifestyle Inflation

As your income increases, you might be tempted to increase your spending proportionally – but don’t do it. You can avoid lifestyle inflation by maintaining a relatively constant standard of living, which allows you to allocate more money toward savings and investments. This will help your finances grow long-term.

12. Use the Power of Compound Interest

Compound interest essentially means you can earn interest on interest, and it’s more helpful than you might think. It can turn modest savings into a lot of wealth over time! Start saving and investing as early as possible to maximize the benefits of compound interest, which will help you to secure your financial future.

13. Explore Side Hustles

A side hustle can help your income, providing extra money that can be used to pay down debt or save. Look for opportunities that match your skills and interests. There are plenty of freelancing sites that you can sign up for to show off your skills. It can help you make money and, who knows – it could even become a new career or business opportunity!

14. Automate Your Finances

One of the easiest things to do is automate your financial transactions. Whether you’re paying bills, putting money into savings, or making investments, automating your finances means you’ll never miss a payment. This set-and-forget approach simplifies money management and will also mean you avoid late fees and penalties.

15. Network Effectively

Building a strong professional network can lead to new job opportunities and business opportunities you may never have dreamed of. Try taking part in online forums and community groups to widen your network. At the very least, you’ll meet some new people, and at best, you might form genuine relationships that could lead to financial opportunities.

In The Future

Clearly, if you’re trying to get financially stable before 40, there are several steps that you can take. But the most important thing to remember is that you need to plan proactively and be disciplined with your savings. None of these steps can guarantee you’ll get there on time, but they’re all steps in the right direction.