Over the past couple of decades, we have witnessed the increasing internationalisation of sports. National barriers can no longer restrain sport personalities, athletes and clubs. Social media, 24-hour news cycles, podcasts and transnational brands do their best to keep you engaged for as much as possible.
The number of active and former professional athletes who try their luck in business has been growing exponentially through the years. Athletes start to venture into entrepreneurship to extend their brand beyond sports, diversify their income and eventually create a post-retirement plan that will help them sustain their lifestyle after retirement.
We've all observed numerous famous athletes who have successfully built strong personal brands, but have you ever wondered how they achieve this remarkable feat? Crafting a personal brand identity that transcends athletic achievements is the key to forging lasting connections with fans, sponsors, and the community.
In the transitional world of professional sports, athletes are presented with a unique opportunity to transcend their traditional roles. With the advent of technology-driven changes, athletes have the chance to not only excel in their respective fields, but also to leave a significant mark in the entrepreneurial arena.
Even though there is no doubt that athletes possess a wide range of unique skills and traits that could prove to be valuable in an entrepreneurial career, such as discipline, perseverance and the continuous need to improve, the transition into the world of business does not come without obstacles and challenges. Mentorship can be the link between the field of sports and the field of business.
