The Rise of Pro Athletes as Angel Investors: Exploring New Ventures Beyond the Field.

An increasing number of elite athletes are venturing into the realm of angel investing, channeling their financial prowess, passion for business, and desire to make a lasting impact beyond the field. With the potential to propel promising startups and contribute to technological innovation, these athletes are redefining the notion of success off the court, field, or rink. In this article, we delve into the reasons behind this growing trend, exploring why pro athletes are becoming angel investors.

1. Financial Opportunities: Many professional athletes earn substantial amounts of money during their careers. Angel investing provides them with an opportunity to grow their wealth and diversify their investment portfolios. By investing in early-stage startups, athletes can potentially earn significant returns if those companies succeed.

2. Passion for Business: Some athletes develop a genuine interest in business and entrepreneurship. They may be intrigued by the challenges and opportunities that come with starting and growing a company. Becoming an angel investor allows them to actively participate in the business world and support innovative ideas and startups.

3. Networking and Mentoring: Athletes often have access to influential networks of business professionals, entrepreneurs, and fellow athletes. By becoming angel investors, they can expand their connections and leverage their networks to support startups they believe in. Athletes may also offer their expertise, experience, and mentorship to young entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of building a business.

4. Post-Athletic Career Planning: For professional athletes nearing the end of their careers, angel investing can be a strategic way to prepare for the transition into retirement. By investing in startups and building a portfolio of investments, athletes can lay the foundation for a post-athletic career in the business or venture capital world.

5. Philanthropy and Giving Back: Many athletes feel a desire to give back to their communities or support causes they care about. Angel investing allows them to allocate resources and support startups that align with their values or have a positive social impact. It can be a way for athletes to contribute to job creation, technological innovation, or other societal goals.

Highlight: Former Dutch footballer Gregory van der Wiel is a true serial investor! Some of his portfolio: Voicey; Wine Awesomeness; Onoff; SuperPhone; Unless; Peddler; Hardt Hyperloop; One Legacy Sports; Blockparty; and FaZe Clan.

Athlete's involvement brings a unique perspective and adds a new dimension to the startup ecosystem. As athletes continue to embrace angel investing, we can expect to witness the fusion of sports and entrepreneurship, creating exciting opportunities for both athletes and aspiring startups alike.