{ "name": "Hydration Break athlete ventures", "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/", "license": "CC BY 4.0", "updated": "2026-10-28", "athletes": [ { "name": "LeBron James", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Active", "country": "USA", "hook": "The NBA's all-time scoring leader built a Hollywood studio and a sports-media network on the side.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "SpringHill Entertainment", "description": "Production company co-owned with business partner Maverick Carter.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/lebron-james-springhill-entertainment-signs-810489", "sources": [ "https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/lebron-james-springhill-entertainment-signs-810489", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Uninterrupted", "description": "Athlete-driven digital video company; produced the TIFF-screened documentary The Carter Effect (2017).", "year": 2015, "source": "http://mashable.com/2015/12/03/lebron-james-uninterrupted/#oROYKPAwhqqV", "sources": [ "http://mashable.com/2015/12/03/lebron-james-uninterrupted/#oROYKPAwhqqV", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Liverpool FC stake", "description": "Received a minority stake in Liverpool FC through a marketing deal with Fenway Sports Group.", "year": 2011, "source": "https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703280904576246640754493456", "sources": [ "https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052748703280904576246640754493456", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "UNKNWN", "description": "Co-founded the designer retail store UNKNWN in Miami.", "year": 2011, "source": "https://www.gq.com/story/lebron-james-new-store-unknwn", "sources": [ "https://www.gq.com/story/lebron-james-new-store-unknwn", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Cleveland Hustles", "description": "Hosted a TV series where aspiring entrepreneurs competed to open businesses in Cleveland.", "year": null, "source": "https://observer.com/2016/08/nba-legend-lebron-james-gives-small-businesses-a-boost-in-cleveland-hustles/", "sources": [ "https://observer.com/2016/08/nba-legend-lebron-james-gives-small-businesses-a-boost-in-cleveland-hustles/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LeBron_James" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/lebron-james/" }, { "name": "Kevin Durant", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Active", "country": "USA", "hook": "Two-time Finals MVP turned media mogul and prolific tech investor.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Thirty Five Ventures", "description": "Investment and media firm co-founded with Rich Kleiman.", "year": 2017, "source": "https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2837433-rich-kleiman-kevin-durant-100-percent-undecided-on-future-amid-knicks-rumors", "sources": [ "https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2837433-rich-kleiman-kevin-durant-100-percent-undecided-on-future-amid-knicks-rumors", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Durant" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Boardroom", "description": "Sports-business multimedia company in the Thirty Five Ventures family.", "year": null, "source": "https://boardroom.tv/about/", "sources": [ "https://boardroom.tv/about/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Durant" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Swagger (Apple TV+)", "description": "TV drama inspired by Durant's youth basketball life, premiered October 29, 2021.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/25951825/golden-state-warriors-star-kevin-durant-focused-building-future-basketball", "sources": [ "https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/25951825/golden-state-warriors-star-kevin-durant-focused-building-future-basketball", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Durant" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Philadelphia Union", "description": "Acquired a 5% minority stake in the MLS club.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/nba-star-kevin-durant-joins-philadelphia-union-ownership-group-becomes-community", "sources": [ "https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/nba-star-kevin-durant-joins-philadelphia-union-ownership-group-becomes-community", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Durant" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Skydio", "description": "Passive investor in the autonomous drone maker.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2020/06/03/funded-by-kevin-durant-and-founded-by-ex-googlers-this-drone-startup-is-scoring-millions-in-government-surveillance-contracts/", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/sites/thomasbrewster/2020/06/03/funded-by-kevin-durant-and-founded-by-ex-googlers-this-drone-startup-is-scoring-millions-in-government-surveillance-contracts/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Durant" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/kevin-durant/" }, { "name": "Peyton Manning", "sport": "Football", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "The audible-calling QB now runs a production studio named after his signature call.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "Omaha Productions", "description": "Co-founded production studio behind Peyton's Places and the ManningCast.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://nypost.com/2021/02/04/whats-next-for-peyton-manning-inside-his-post-nfl-career-path/", "sources": [ "https://nypost.com/2021/02/04/whats-next-for-peyton-manning-inside-his-post-nfl-career-path/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peyton_Manning" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "ManningCast", "description": "Alternate Monday Night Football broadcast with brother Eli on ESPN2/ESPN+.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31844366/peyton-eli-manning-headline-alternate-monday-night-football-broadcast", "sources": [ "https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31844366/peyton-eli-manning-headline-alternate-monday-night-football-broadcast", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peyton_Manning" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Papa John's franchises", "description": "Bought 21 Papa John's stores in Colorado.", "year": 2012, "source": "https://www.nfl.com/news/peyton-manning-a-new-owner-of-21-papa-john-s-pizza-stores-0ap1000000085486", "sources": [ "https://www.nfl.com/news/peyton-manning-a-new-owner-of-21-papa-john-s-pizza-stores-0ap1000000085486", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peyton_Manning" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/peyton-manning/" }, { "name": "Serena Williams", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "23-time Grand Slam champion who became a venture capitalist backing diverse founders.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Serena Ventures", "description": "VC firm investing in start-ups that 'level the playing field' for women and people of color; raised $110M+ by 2022.", "year": 2014, "source": "https://techparley.com/sport-queen-serena-williams-leads-3-3-million-seed-in-nigerian-startup-stears/", "sources": [ "https://techparley.com/sport-queen-serena-williams-leads-3-3-million-seed-in-nigerian-startup-stears/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serena_Williams" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Angel City FC", "description": "Early backer of the LA NWSL club, which began play in 2022.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2025-03-03/serena-williams-ownership-group-wnba-expansion-team-toronto-tempo", "sources": [ "https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2025-03-03/serena-williams-ownership-group-wnba-expansion-team-toronto-tempo", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serena_Williams" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Serena Williams Foundation", "description": "Funded construction of the Serena Williams Secondary School in Matooni, Kenya, and university scholarships.", "year": 2008, "source": "https://leadingladiesafrica.org/serena-williams-bumble-advert-is-teaching-women-to-ditch-patience/", "sources": [ "https://leadingladiesafrica.org/serena-williams-bumble-advert-is-teaching-women-to-ditch-patience/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serena_Williams" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Yetunde Price Resource Center", "description": "Co-founded with Venus in Compton in honor of their late half-sister.", "year": 2016, "source": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serena_Williams", "sources": [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Serena_Williams" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/serena-williams/" }, { "name": "Venus Williams", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Active", "country": "USA", "hook": "Seven-time major champ who runs an interior design firm and co-owns an NFL stake.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "V Starr Interiors", "description": "Founded the interior design firm V Starr in Jupiter, Florida (Sonya Haffey became CEO in 2024).", "year": null, "source": "https://vstarr.com/about", "sources": [ "https://vstarr.com/about", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venus_Williams", "https://www.hospitality-interiors.net/news/sonya-haffey-appointed-as-ceo-of-v-starr/" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Miami Dolphins", "description": "With Serena, became the first African-American women with ownership in an NFL franchise.", "year": 2009, "source": "https://www.nfl.com/news/williams-sisters-become-latest-celebrities-to-buy-part-of-dolph-09000d5d812254b7", "sources": [ "https://www.nfl.com/news/williams-sisters-become-latest-celebrities-to-buy-part-of-dolph-09000d5d812254b7", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venus_Williams" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Yetunde Price Resource Center", "description": "Co-founded with Serena in Compton.", "year": 2016, "source": "https://archive.org/details/venusserenawilli0000edmo", "sources": [ "https://archive.org/details/venusserenawilli0000edmo", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Venus_Williams" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/venus-williams/" }, { "name": "Naomi Osaka", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Active", "country": "Japan", "hook": "Four-time Slam winner building a media company and backing women's sports teams.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "Hana Kuma", "description": "Media and production company launched with Stuart Duguid; spun off independently in 2023 after a $5M round.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/caa-signs-naomi-osaka-hana-kuma-media-company-representation-1235809785/", "sources": [ "https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/caa-signs-naomi-osaka-hana-kuma-media-company-representation-1235809785/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naomi_Osaka" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "North Carolina Courage", "description": "Became a co-owner of the NWSL club.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettknight/2022/12/14/major-league-pickleball-naomi-osaka-patrick-mahomes/", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettknight/2022/12/14/major-league-pickleball-naomi-osaka-patrick-mahomes/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naomi_Osaka" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Miami pro pickleball team", "description": "Investor in a Miami-based pro pickleball team.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://majorleaguepickleball.co/news/major-league-pickleball-announces-new-ownership-groups-comprised-of-dynamic-leaders-across-sports-business-and-entertainment-including/", "sources": [ "https://majorleaguepickleball.co/news/major-league-pickleball-announces-new-ownership-groups-comprised-of-dynamic-leaders-across-sports-business-and-entertainment-including/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naomi_Osaka" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/naomi-osaka/" }, { "name": "Magic Johnson", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Five-time champion who became one of the most successful athlete-owners in sports.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Los Angeles Dodgers", "description": "Part owner; World Series champion as owner in 2020, 2024 and 2025.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/magic-johnson-celebrates-dodgers-world-013633912.html", "sources": [ "https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/magic-johnson-celebrates-dodgers-world-013633912.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Johnson" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Washington Commanders", "description": "Invested $240 million in the Josh Harris-led group that bought the NFL team.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2023/07/31/franchises.aspx", "sources": [ "https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2023/07/31/franchises.aspx", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Johnson" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Los Angeles FC", "description": "Co-owner of the MLS club, MLS Cup champion in 2022.", "year": 2014, "source": "https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/justin-bieber-magic-johnson-wiz-khalifa-among-many-stars-at-mls-cup-2022", "sources": [ "https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/justin-bieber-magic-johnson-wiz-khalifa-among-many-stars-at-mls-cup-2022", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Johnson" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Los Angeles Sparks", "description": "Part owner; WNBA champion in 2016.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/magic-johnson-celebrates-dodgers-world-013633912.html", "sources": [ "https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/magic-johnson-celebrates-dodgers-world-013633912.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Johnson" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Magic Johnson Foundation", "description": "Foundation founded in 1991.", "year": 1991, "source": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Johnson", "sources": [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magic_Johnson" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/magic-johnson/" }, { "name": "Shaquille O'Neal", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Hall of Famer, early Google investor, and fast-food empire builder.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Google", "description": "An early investor in Google.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/11/shaquille-oneal-tells-ellen-degeneres-how-he-invested-in-google.html", "sources": [ "https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/11/shaquille-oneal-tells-ellen-degeneres-how-he-invested-in-google.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaquille_O%27Neal" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Five Guys", "description": "Owned (later sold) 155 Five Guys restaurants, about 10% of locations.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.cnbc.com/2016/05/11/10-celebrities-building-business-empires-with-franchising.html", "sources": [ "https://www.cnbc.com/2016/05/11/10-celebrities-building-business-empires-with-franchising.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaquille_O%27Neal" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Big Chicken", "description": "Owns the Big Chicken chicken-sandwich brand.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.forbes.com/sites/zackomalleygreenburg/2018/12/11/shaqs-fun-house-a-super-sized-super-bowl-party-with-longterm-ambitions/", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/sites/zackomalleygreenburg/2018/12/11/shaqs-fun-house-a-super-sized-super-bowl-party-with-longterm-ambitions/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaquille_O%27Neal" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Papa John's", "description": "Joined the board and invested in nine Atlanta-area stores.", "year": 2019, "source": "https://www.buzzfeed.com/jeremyhayes/greatest-shaq-commercials", "sources": [ "https://www.buzzfeed.com/jeremyhayes/greatest-shaq-commercials", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaquille_O%27Neal" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Sacramento Kings", "description": "Became a minority owner.", "year": 2013, "source": "https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2002/11/05/kings-come-out-fighting/", "sources": [ "https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2002/11/05/kings-come-out-fighting/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaquille_O%27Neal" ] }, { "category": "real estate", "title": "Real estate entrepreneur", "description": "Owns car washes, health clubs and a movie theater in Newark.", "year": null, "source": "https://latimes.com/sports/la-sp-briefing12-2008jun12,0,7253710.story", "sources": [ "https://latimes.com/sports/la-sp-briefing12-2008jun12,0,7253710.story", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaquille_O%27Neal" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/shaquille-oneal/" }, { "name": "Alex Rodriguez", "sport": "Baseball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "A-Rod's second act is a real-estate and holdings empire.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "A-Rod Corp", "description": "Holding company investing in tech, real estate, wellness and entertainment.", "year": 1996, "source": "https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/alex-rodriguez-baseball-net-worth", "sources": [ "https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/alex-rodriguez-baseball-net-worth", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Rodriguez" ] }, { "category": "real estate", "title": "Newport Property Construction", "description": "Founded a real-estate development firm.", "year": 2008, "source": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Rodriguez", "sources": [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Rodriguez" ] }, { "category": "real estate", "title": "Monument Capital Management", "description": "Has acquired more than $1 billion of real-estate assets in 16 states.", "year": 2012, "source": "https://www.cnbc.com/2019/11/07/ex-mlb-star-alex-rodriguez-i-work-harder-at-business-than-baseball.html", "sources": [ "https://www.cnbc.com/2019/11/07/ex-mlb-star-alex-rodriguez-i-work-harder-at-business-than-baseball.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Rodriguez" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/alex-rodriguez/" }, { "name": "Tom Brady", "sport": "Football", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Seven rings, then a broadcasting deal, a production company and an NFL ownership stake.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "199 Productions", "description": "Production company named after his 2000 draft pick number.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://www.boston.com/sports/media/2020/03/13/tom-brady-199-productions/", "sources": [ "https://www.boston.com/sports/media/2020/03/13/tom-brady-199-productions/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Brady" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "TB12", "description": "Training and wellness brand with merchandise and a snack line.", "year": 2016, "source": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Brady", "sources": [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Brady" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Las Vegas Raiders", "description": "Became a partial owner.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/mark-davis-tom-brady-was-close-to-signing-with-raiders-in-2020-gruden-and-mayock-said-no", "sources": [ "https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/mark-davis-tom-brady-was-close-to-signing-with-raiders-in-2020-gruden-and-mayock-said-no", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Brady" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "NFL on Fox", "description": "Lead color commentator.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-10-years-375-million-for-tom-brady", "sources": [ "https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-10-years-375-million-for-tom-brady", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Brady" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/tom-brady/" }, { "name": "Stephen Curry", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Active", "country": "USA", "hook": "The greatest shooter ever runs a production company, a signature brand and a family foundation.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "Unanimous Media", "description": "Production company founded with Erick Peyton; signed a multi-year deal with Sony Pictures at launch.", "year": 2018, "source": "https://www.sonypictures.com/corp/press_releases/2018/04_18/042318_stephencurry.html", "sources": [ "https://www.sonypictures.com/corp/press_releases/2018/04_18/042318_stephencurry.html", "https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/caa-signs-unanimous-media-stephen-curry-erick-peyton-1236511913/" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Curry Brand", "description": "President of his signature shoe and apparel line with Under Armour (partnership 2013–2025).", "year": 2013, "source": "https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/under-armour-and-stephen-curry-launch-curry-brand-301182761.html", "sources": [ "https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/under-armour-and-stephen-curry-launch-curry-brand-301182761.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Curry" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation", "description": "Launched with Ayesha Curry in Oakland.", "year": 2019, "source": "https://www.forbes.com/sites/patrickmurray/2019/08/11/with-the-launch-of-the-eat-learn-play-foundation-stephen-and-ayesha-curry-are-taking-their-philanthropy-to-the-next-level/", "sources": [ "https://www.forbes.com/sites/patrickmurray/2019/08/11/with-the-launch-of-the-eat-learn-play-foundation-stephen-and-ayesha-curry-are-taking-their-philanthropy-to-the-next-level/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Curry" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Nothing But Nets", "description": "Donated three malaria nets per three-pointer made to the UN Foundation campaign.", "year": 2012, "source": "https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975709", "sources": [ "https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400975709", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Curry" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/stephen-curry/" }, { "name": "Michael Jordan", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "The first former player to become majority owner of an NBA team, now a NASCAR owner.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Charlotte Hornets", "description": "Bought a minority stake in 2006, controlling interest in 2010, sold majority in 2023.", "year": 2010, "source": "https://web.archive.org/web/20140104074138/http://lubbockonline.com/stories/051099/pro_051099077.shtml", "sources": [ "https://web.archive.org/web/20140104074138/http://lubbockonline.com/stories/051099/pro_051099077.shtml", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jordan" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "23XI Racing", "description": "Co-owner of the NASCAR Cup Series team.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2020/10/22/michael-jordan-denny-hamlin-team-name-23xi-racing-bubba-wallace/", "sources": [ "https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2020/10/22/michael-jordan-denny-hamlin-team-name-23xi-racing-bubba-wallace/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jordan" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Boys & Girls Club", "description": "Founded a Chicago-area club dedicated to his father.", "year": 1996, "source": "https://web.archive.org/web/20121107080346/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/nba/longterm/jordan/articles/chicago14.htm", "sources": [ "https://web.archive.org/web/20121107080346/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/sports/nba/longterm/jordan/articles/chicago14.htm", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Jordan" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/michael-jordan/" }, { "name": "David Beckham", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Retired", "country": "England", "hook": "From free kicks to club president: Inter Miami, Salford and a stack of side bets.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Inter Miami CF", "description": "President and co-owner of the MLS club, which began play in 2020.", "year": 2014, "source": "http://www.socceramerica.com/article/51723/beckham-is-mls-expansion-story-du-jour.html", "sources": [ "http://www.socceramerica.com/article/51723/beckham-is-mls-expansion-story-du-jour.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Beckham" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Salford City", "description": "Joined his Class of '92 teammates as part owner.", "year": 2019, "source": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46972871", "sources": [ "https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/46972871", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Beckham" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Lunaz", "description": "Bought a 10% stake in the vehicle electrification firm.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/jun/03/david-beckham-buys-stakes-in-vehicle-electrification-firm", "sources": [ "https://www.theguardian.com/business/2021/jun/03/david-beckham-buys-stakes-in-vehicle-electrification-firm", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Beckham" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "David Beckham Academy", "description": "Founded football schools in London and Los Angeles.", "year": 2005, "source": "http://www.socceramerica.com/article/51723/beckham-is-mls-expansion-story-du-jour.html", "sources": [ "http://www.socceramerica.com/article/51723/beckham-is-mls-expansion-story-du-jour.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Beckham" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund", "description": "UNICEF ambassador since 2005; launched his fund in 2015.", "year": 2015, "source": "http://m.unicef.org.uk/UNICEFs-Work/Our-supporters/Celebrities/David-Beckham/", "sources": [ "http://m.unicef.org.uk/UNICEFs-Work/Our-supporters/Celebrities/David-Beckham/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Beckham" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/david-beckham/" }, { "name": "Maria Sharapova", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Retired", "country": "Russia", "hook": "Five-time Slam champion turned candy founder and consumer-brand investor.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Sugarpova", "description": "Launched her own confectionery brand.", "year": 2012, "source": "https://www.snackandbakery.com/articles/102169-maria-sharpova-s-sugarpova-fills-a-niche", "sources": [ "https://www.snackandbakery.com/articles/102169-maria-sharpova-s-sugarpova-fills-a-niche", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Sharapova" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Supergoop", "description": "Invested in the sunscreen brand (Blackstone later took a majority stake).", "year": 2014, "source": "https://www.vogue.com/article/maria-sharapova-new-supergoop-sunscreen-co-owner", "sources": [ "https://www.vogue.com/article/maria-sharapova-new-supergoop-sunscreen-co-owner", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Sharapova" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Therabody", "description": "Became an investor in the wellness brand.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/11/maria-sharapova-invests-in-therabody.html", "sources": [ "https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/11/maria-sharapova-invests-in-therabody.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Sharapova" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Maria Sharapova Foundation", "description": "Foundation helping children around the world.", "year": null, "source": "https://chnet.com/4209/maria-sharapova-foundation.html", "sources": [ "https://chnet.com/4209/maria-sharapova-foundation.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maria_Sharapova" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/maria-sharapova/" }, { "name": "Roger Staubach", "sport": "Football", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Hall of Fame QB who built a commercial real-estate firm and sold it for $613M.", "ventures": [ { "category": "real estate", "title": "The Staubach Company", "description": "Commercial real estate business started with Robert Holloway Jr.", "year": 1977, "source": "https://www.denverpost.com/2008/06/16/staubach-firm-sold-for-613-million/", "sources": [ "https://www.denverpost.com/2008/06/16/staubach-firm-sold-for-613-million/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Staubach" ] }, { "category": "real estate", "title": "Sale to Jones Lang LaSalle", "description": "Sold his firm to JLL for $613 million.", "year": 2008, "source": "https://www.reuters.com/article/staubach-joneslanglasalle/update-2-jones-lang-lasalle-to-buy-staubach-co-idUSN1628228220080616/", "sources": [ "https://www.reuters.com/article/staubach-joneslanglasalle/update-2-jones-lang-lasalle-to-buy-staubach-co-idUSN1628228220080616/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roger_Staubach" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/roger-staubach/" }, { "name": "Junior Bridgeman", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired (deceased)", "country": "USA", "hook": "Turned 450+ restaurants into a bottling empire, then bought Ebony and a piece of the Bucks.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Restaurant franchises", "description": "Owned over 450 fast-food restaurants including 160+ Wendy's and 120 Chili's.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.nrn.com/restaurant-executives/junior-bridgeman-trades-restaurants-for-coca-cola", "sources": [ "https://www.nrn.com/restaurant-executives/junior-bridgeman-trades-restaurants-for-coca-cola", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junior_Bridgeman" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Coca-Cola bottling", "description": "Started a Coca-Cola bottling and distribution company.", "year": 2016, "source": "https://investors.coca-colacompany.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/822/new-bottler-to-join-u-s-coca-cola-system-three-existing-bottlers-sign-letters-of-intent-to-expand", "sources": [ "https://investors.coca-colacompany.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/822/new-bottler-to-join-u-s-coca-cola-system-three-existing-bottlers-sign-letters-of-intent-to-expand", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junior_Bridgeman" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Ebony and Jet", "description": "Acquired Ebony and Jet magazines.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.adammendler.com/blog/eden-bridgeman-sklenar/", "sources": [ "https://www.adammendler.com/blog/eden-bridgeman-sklenar/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junior_Bridgeman" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Milwaukee Bucks", "description": "Purchased a 10% interest valuing the team at $4 billion.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/bridgju01.html", "sources": [ "https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/bridgju01.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Junior_Bridgeman" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/junior-bridgeman/" }, { "name": "Colin Kaepernick", "sport": "Football", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Activist QB who founded a youth camp and a publishing house.", "ventures": [ { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Know Your Rights Camp", "description": "Free seminars for disadvantaged youths, co-founded with Nessa.", "year": 2016, "source": "https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/colin-kaepernick-eif-philanthropy-1235169063/", "sources": [ "https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/colin-kaepernick-eif-philanthropy-1235169063/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colin_Kaepernick" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Kaepernick Publishing", "description": "Launched 'Abolition for the People' essay collection with Medium.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://www.cbsnews.com/news/colin-kaepernick-abolish-police-prisons-essay-medium-2020-10-08/", "sources": [ "https://www.cbsnews.com/news/colin-kaepernick-abolish-police-prisons-essay-medium-2020-10-08/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colin_Kaepernick" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/colin-kaepernick/" }, { "name": "Patrick Mahomes", "sport": "Football", "status": "Active", "country": "USA", "hook": "Chiefs superstar with stakes in three KC teams and a Whataburger expansion.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Kansas City Royals", "description": "Joined the ownership group as a minority stakeholder.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://www.mlb.com/royals/news/patrick-mahomes-joins-royals-ownership-group", "sources": [ "https://www.mlb.com/royals/news/patrick-mahomes-joins-royals-ownership-group", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Mahomes" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Sporting Kansas City", "description": "Joined the Sporting Club ownership group.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37619418/kansas-city-qb-patrick-mahomes-buys-stake-mls-club-sporting-kansas-city", "sources": [ "https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37619418/kansas-city-qb-patrick-mahomes-buys-stake-mls-club-sporting-kansas-city", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Mahomes" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Whataburger franchises", "description": "Investor in a group expanding Whataburger to Missouri and Kansas.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.kctv5.com/2024/06/03/kansas-citys-latest-mahomes-backed-whataburger-location-opens-near-arrowhead/", "sources": [ "https://www.kctv5.com/2024/06/03/kansas-citys-latest-mahomes-backed-whataburger-location-opens-near-arrowhead/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Mahomes" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "15 and the Mahomies Foundation", "description": "Nonprofit he established.", "year": 2019, "source": "https://chiefswire.usatoday.com/2019/04/02/kansas-city-chiefs-qb-patrick-mahomes-announces-foundation-15-and-the-mahomies/", "sources": [ "https://chiefswire.usatoday.com/2019/04/02/kansas-city-chiefs-qb-patrick-mahomes-announces-foundation-15-and-the-mahomies/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Mahomes" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/patrick-mahomes/" }, { "name": "Lewis Hamilton", "sport": "Formula 1", "status": "Active", "country": "England", "hook": "Seven-time champion with a plant-based burger chain, a spirits brand and a film credit.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Neat Burger", "description": "Plant-based restaurant chain; served free meals to NHS workers during COVID-19.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/news/lewis-hamiltons-vegan-burger-chain-is-giving-free-vegan-meals-to-nhs-workers/", "sources": [ "https://www.veganfoodandliving.com/news/lewis-hamiltons-vegan-burger-chain-is-giving-free-vegan-meals-to-nhs-workers/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_Hamilton" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Almave", "description": "Founder of a premium non-alcoholic agave spirit brand.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.wwd.com/pop-culture/new-fashion-releases/lewis-hamilton-almave-non-alcoholic-mezcal-1238030038/", "sources": [ "https://www.wwd.com/pop-culture/new-fashion-releases/lewis-hamilton-almave-non-alcoholic-mezcal-1238030038/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_Hamilton" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Mission 44", "description": "Charity helping young people from under-represented backgrounds.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.mercedesamgf1.com/en/news/2021/07/mercdes-lewis-hamilton-launch-joint-charitable-initiative-ignite/", "sources": [ "https://www.mercedesamgf1.com/en/news/2021/07/mercdes-lewis-hamilton-launch-joint-charitable-initiative-ignite/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_Hamilton" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "The Game Changers", "description": "Executive producer of the documentary.", "year": 2018, "source": "https://gamechangersmovie.com/the-film/#", "sources": [ "https://gamechangersmovie.com/the-film/#", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lewis_Hamilton" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/lewis-hamilton/" }, { "name": "Giannis Antetokounmpo", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Active", "country": "Greece", "hook": "From Athens street vendor to MVP, owner, and subject of a Disney film.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Milwaukee Brewers", "description": "Became a minority owner.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32056841/milwaukee-bucks-giannis-antetokounmpo-purchase-stake-milwaukee-brewers-sources-say/", "sources": [ "https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/32056841/milwaukee-bucks-giannis-antetokounmpo-purchase-stake-milwaukee-brewers-sources-say/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giannis_Antetokounmpo" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Nashville SC", "description": "Minority owners with his brothers.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://www.nashvillesc.com/news/filip-forsberg-giannis-antetokounmpo-join-nashville-soccer-club-ownership-group", "sources": [ "https://www.nashvillesc.com/news/filip-forsberg-giannis-antetokounmpo-join-nashville-soccer-club-ownership-group", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giannis_Antetokounmpo" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Calamos Antetokounmpo ETF (SROI)", "description": "50/50 joint venture with Calamos on a sustainable-equities ETF, listed in 2023; Calamos announced its liquidation in September 2026.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://www.calamos.com/about/news/press-releases/2023/calamos-investments-announces-the-listing-of-the-etf-sroi/", "sources": [ "https://www.calamos.com/about/news/press-releases/2023/calamos-investments-announces-the-listing-of-the-etf-sroi/", "https://etf.net/news/calamos-to-liquidate-its-giannis-antetokounmpo-sustainable-etf-2026-09-11", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giannis_Antetokounmpo" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Rise", "description": "Film based on the life of Giannis and his family.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://news.disney.com/rise-movie", "sources": [ "https://news.disney.com/rise-movie", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Giannis_Antetokounmpo" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/giannis-antetokounmpo/" }, { "name": "Kobe Bryant", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired (deceased)", "country": "USA", "hook": "The only NBA legend with an Academy Award.", "ventures": [ { "category": "creative", "title": "Dear Basketball", "description": "Won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.", "year": 2018, "source": "https://www.nba.com/news/kobe-bryants-dear-basketball-wins-oscar-best-animated-short-film", "sources": [ "https://www.nba.com/news/kobe-bryants-dear-basketball-wins-oscar-best-animated-short-film", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kobe_Bryant" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Kobe Inc.", "description": "Established to own and grow brands in the sports industry.", "year": null, "source": "http://www.ocregister.com/sports/kobebryant-88229-makeawishfoundation-lakers.html", "sources": [ "http://www.ocregister.com/sports/kobebryant-88229-makeawishfoundation-lakers.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kobe_Bryant" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Kobe and Vanessa Bryant Family Foundation", "description": "Founded with his wife.", "year": 2007, "source": "http://www.ocregister.com/sports/kobebryant-88229-makeawishfoundation-lakers.html", "sources": [ "http://www.ocregister.com/sports/kobebryant-88229-makeawishfoundation-lakers.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kobe_Bryant" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/kobe-bryant/" }, { "name": "Dwyane Wade", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Heat legend turned co-owner of the Utah Jazz and Chicago Sky.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Utah Jazz", "description": "Bought a minority stake in the Ryan Smith-led group.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.nba.com/news/dwyane-wade-joins-utah-jazz-ownership-group", "sources": [ "https://www.nba.com/news/dwyane-wade-joins-utah-jazz-ownership-group", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwyane_Wade" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Chicago Sky", "description": "Joined the WNBA team's ownership group.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://sky.wnba.com/news/dwyane-wade-invests-in-wnbas-chicago-sky/#:~:text=Wade%20joins%20the%20franchise%20as,10%25%20stake%20in%20the%20team.", "sources": [ "https://sky.wnba.com/news/dwyane-wade-invests-in-wnbas-chicago-sky/#:~:text=Wade%20joins%20the%20franchise%20as,10%25%20stake%20in%20the%20team.", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwyane_Wade" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/dwyane-wade/" }, { "name": "Rory McIlroy", "sport": "Golf", "status": "Active", "country": "Northern Ireland", "hook": "Major champion, VC firm founder, and co-creator of TGL with Tiger Woods.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Symphony Ventures", "description": "Venture capital firm founded with agent Sean O'Flaherty.", "year": 2019, "source": "https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/04/07/golfs-most-marketable-players/", "sources": [ "https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/04/07/golfs-most-marketable-players/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rory_McIlroy" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "TMRW Sports", "description": "Co-founded with Tiger Woods and Mike McCarley.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://www.sportico.com/leagues/golf/2024/tmrw-sports-500-million-value-series-a-funding-round-1234785406/", "sources": [ "https://www.sportico.com/leagues/golf/2024/tmrw-sports-500-million-value-series-a-funding-round-1234785406/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rory_McIlroy" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Whoop", "description": "Investor in the $100M Series E.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2020/10/28/rory-mcilroy-justin-thomas-among-whoop-series-e-financing-investors/76531859007/", "sources": [ "https://golfweek.usatoday.com/story/sports/golf/2020/10/28/rory-mcilroy-justin-thomas-among-whoop-series-e-financing-investors/76531859007/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rory_McIlroy" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Alpine F1 Team", "description": "Joined the investment group.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://www.nfl.com/news/patrick-mahomes-invests-in-formula-one-team-alpine-ownership", "sources": [ "https://www.nfl.com/news/patrick-mahomes-invests-in-formula-one-team-alpine-ownership", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rory_McIlroy" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "The Rory Foundation", "description": "Supports children's charities; pledged £1M to the Cancer Fund for Children.", "year": 2013, "source": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rory_McIlroy", "sources": [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rory_McIlroy" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/rory-mcilroy/" }, { "name": "Usain Bolt", "sport": "Track & Field", "status": "Retired", "country": "Jamaica", "hook": "The fastest man alive bet on scooters, esports and a new track series.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Bolt Mobility", "description": "Co-founded electric scooter company.", "year": 2018, "source": "https://edition.cnn.com/2019/05/16/sport/usain-bolt-electric-scooter-bolt-spt-intl/index.html", "sources": [ "https://edition.cnn.com/2019/05/16/sport/usain-bolt-electric-scooter-bolt-spt-intl/index.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usain_Bolt" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "WYLDE", "description": "Co-owner of the Irish esports organisation.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://wylde.gg/about/", "sources": [ "https://wylde.gg/about/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usain_Bolt" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Nitro Athletics", "description": "Took a financial stake in the Australian meet series.", "year": null, "source": "https://spikes.worldathletics.org/post/book-excerpt-usain-bolt-legend", "sources": [ "https://spikes.worldathletics.org/post/book-excerpt-usain-bolt-legend", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usain_Bolt" ] }, { "category": "creative", "title": "Bolt! (iOS game)", "description": "Game based on his exploits, launched with RockLive.", "year": 2012, "source": "http://mashable.com/2012/07/18/usain-bolt", "sources": [ "http://mashable.com/2012/07/18/usain-bolt", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usain_Bolt" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/usain-bolt/" }, { "name": "Tony Hawk", "sport": "Skateboarding", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Skateboarding's Birdman owns a board company, a chicken spot, and funds skateparks.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Birdhouse Skateboards", "description": "Owner of the skateboard company he launched.", "year": null, "source": "http://www.biography.com/people/tony-hawk-40989", "sources": [ "http://www.biography.com/people/tony-hawk-40989", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Hawk" ] }, { "category": "business", "title": "Chick & Hawk", "description": "Skate-culture chicken sandwich restaurant.", "year": null, "source": "https://sandiegomagazine.com/food-drink/chick-and-hawk-encinitas-opening/", "sources": [ "https://sandiegomagazine.com/food-drink/chick-and-hawk-encinitas-opening/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Hawk" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Tony Hawk Foundation", "description": "Funds safe, legal public skateparks.", "year": 2002, "source": "https://www.rwbuilttoplay.org/transformative-tony-hawk-foundation-becomes-the-skatepark-project/", "sources": [ "https://www.rwbuilttoplay.org/transformative-tony-hawk-foundation-becomes-the-skatepark-project/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Hawk" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Scott Coker MMA promotion", "description": "Announced as a primary investor in a new MMA promotion.", "year": 2026, "source": "https://nypost.com/2026/05/22/sports/scott-coker-details-plans-for-new-mma-league-platform-to-make-a-big-pot-of-gold/", "sources": [ "https://nypost.com/2026/05/22/sports/scott-coker-details-plans-for-new-mma-league-platform-to-make-a-big-pot-of-gold/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Hawk" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/tony-hawk/" }, { "name": "Mia Hamm", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Two-time World Cup winner, co-owner of LAFC and Angel City.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Los Angeles FC", "description": "Announced as a co-owner of the MLS team.", "year": 2014, "source": "https://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-mls-franchise-los-angeles-20141030-story.html", "sources": [ "https://www.latimes.com/sports/sportsnow/la-sp-sn-mls-franchise-los-angeles-20141030-story.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mia_Hamm" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Angel City FC", "description": "Co-owner of the NWSL club.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2022-04-24/mia-hamm-angel-city", "sources": [ "https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2022-04-24/mia-hamm-angel-city", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mia_Hamm" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Mia Hamm Foundation", "description": "Raises funds for bone marrow and cord blood transplant patients.", "year": 1999, "source": "http://www.cnn.com/CNN/Programs/people/shows/hamm/profile.html", "sources": [ "http://www.cnn.com/CNN/Programs/people/shows/hamm/profile.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mia_Hamm" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/mia-hamm/" }, { "name": "Billie Jean King", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Founder of the WTA and Women's Sports Foundation; pioneer of women's sports media.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Women's Tennis Association", "description": "First president of the women's players union.", "year": 1973, "source": "https://www.billiejeanking.com/biography/firsts-and-facts/", "sources": [ "https://www.billiejeanking.com/biography/firsts-and-facts/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billie_Jean_King" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Women's Sports Foundation", "description": "Started the foundation.", "year": 1974, "source": "https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/who-we-are/our-team/our-founder/", "sources": [ "https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/who-we-are/our-team/our-founder/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billie_Jean_King" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "womenSports magazine", "description": "Co-founded the magazine with Larry King and Jim Jorgensen.", "year": 1974, "source": "https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/05/27/they-cheer-when-the-parson-is-pitching", "sources": [ "https://vault.si.com/vault/1968/05/27/they-cheer-when-the-parson-is-pitching", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billie_Jean_King" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/billie-jean-king/" }, { "name": "Allyson Felix", "sport": "Track & Field", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "The most decorated U.S. track Olympian left Nike and built her own shoe company.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Saysh", "description": "Founded her own footwear company; won Olympic medals in her own Saysh spikes.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://time.com/6073949/allyson-felix-launching-saysh-shoes/", "sources": [ "https://time.com/6073949/allyson-felix-launching-saysh-shoes/", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allyson_Felix" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/allyson-felix/" }, { "name": "Candace Parker", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Three-time WNBA champ now running women's basketball at Adidas.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Adidas Women's Basketball", "description": "Named president of Adidas women's basketball after retiring.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://www.cnbc.com/id/24248609", "sources": [ "https://www.cnbc.com/id/24248609", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candace_Parker" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/candace-parker/" }, { "name": "Dikembe Mutombo", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired (deceased)", "country": "DR Congo", "hook": "Shot-blocking legend whose foundation built a 300-bed hospital in Kinshasa.", "ventures": [ { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Dikembe Mutombo Foundation", "description": "Founded to improve living conditions in the DR Congo.", "year": 1997, "source": "https://www.si.com/nba/2021/04/08/dikembe-mutombo-post-career-coffee-company", "sources": [ "https://www.si.com/nba/2021/04/08/dikembe-mutombo-post-career-coffee-company", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dikembe_Mutombo" ] }, { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital", "description": "Hospital and research center in Kinshasa, a model for the region.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/4125439.html", "sources": [ "https://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkn/4125439.html", "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dikembe_Mutombo" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/dikembe-mutombo/" }, { "name": "Alex Morgan", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Two-time World Cup champion who co-founded a women's sports media company and writes kids' books.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "TOGETHXR", "description": "Co-founded the women's sports media and commerce company with Sue Bird, Chloe Kim and Simone Manuel.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/03/business/togethxr-womens-sports-trnd", "sources": [ "https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/03/business/togethxr-womens-sports-trnd", "https://www.nbcsports.com/on-her-turf/news/alex-morgan-sue-bird-chloe-kim-simone-manuel-togethxr" ] }, { "category": "creative", "title": "The Kicks", "description": "Children's book series with Simon & Schuster, later adapted into a live-action kids series.", "year": null, "source": "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Morgan", "sources": [ "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Morgan" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/alex-morgan/" }, { "name": "Megan Rapinoe", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "World Cup winner and activist who now runs a production company with Sue Bird.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "A Touch More", "description": "Production company co-founded with Sue Bird, in partnership with TOGETHXR; debuted with the audio doc '30 for 30: Pink Card'.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://variety.com/2022/film/news/sue-bird-megan-rapinoe-production-company-a-touch-more-1235451753/", "sources": [ "https://variety.com/2022/film/news/sue-bird-megan-rapinoe-production-company-a-touch-more-1235451753/", "https://boardroom.tv/a-touch-more-sue-bird-megan-rapinoe-production-company/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/megan-rapinoe/" }, { "name": "Sue Bird", "sport": "Basketball", "status": "Retired", "country": "USA", "hook": "Four-time WNBA champion turned media founder.", "ventures": [ { "category": "film & media", "title": "TOGETHXR", "description": "Co-founded the women's sports media and commerce company.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/03/business/togethxr-womens-sports-trnd", "sources": [ "https://www.cnn.com/2021/03/03/business/togethxr-womens-sports-trnd" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "A Touch More", "description": "Production company co-founded with Megan Rapinoe.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://variety.com/2022/film/news/sue-bird-megan-rapinoe-production-company-a-touch-more-1235451753/", "sources": [ "https://variety.com/2022/film/news/sue-bird-megan-rapinoe-production-company-a-touch-more-1235451753/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/sue-bird/" }, { "name": "Erling Haaland", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "Norway", "hook": "Norway's 2026 World Cup meme machine (cowboy Snapchats, leading the Viking Row after the win over Brazil) also runs a serious investment vehicle.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Pillage 3 / Maritime & Merchant Bank", "description": "His investment company Pillage 3 bought about 0.7% of the Oslo shipping-finance bank, after earlier buying into Höegh Autoliners.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-21/norwegian-football-star-haaland-invests-in-ship-finance-bank", "sources": [ "https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-05-21/norwegian-football-star-haaland-invests-in-ship-finance-bank", "https://e24.no/boers-og-finans/i/4BoOJq/haaland-tjente-3-4-millioner-paa-aksjer-i-fjor" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Db (luggage brand)", "description": "Joined Scandinavian bag and luggage brand Db as a minority shareholder alongside Gustav Witzøe.", "year": 2025, "source": "https://dbjourney.com/pages/erling-haaland-and-gustav-witzoe-join-db", "sources": [ "https://dbjourney.com/pages/erling-haaland-and-gustav-witzoe-join-db" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Norway Chess / Chess Mates", "description": "Co-founded Chess Mates with Morten Borge, which took a 25% stake in Norway Chess to launch the Total Chess World Championship Tour.", "year": 2026, "source": "https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/chess-man-city-striker-haaland-invests-norway-chess-2026-03-19/", "sources": [ "https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/chess-man-city-striker-haaland-invests-norway-chess-2026-03-19/", "https://www.chess.com/news/view/erling-haaland-joins-norway-chess-as-an-investor-chess-is-an-incredible-game", "https://norwaychess.no/en/2026/03/19/erling-haaland-invests-in-norway-chess-to-launch-the-new-total-chess-world-championship-tour/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/erling-haaland/" }, { "name": "Martin Ødegaard", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "Norway", "hook": "Norway's captain grabbed the bass drum to lead the viral Viking Row on the pitch at the 2026 World Cup.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Recharge Health (Flexbeam)", "description": "Invested in the Norwegian startup behind the Flexbeam infrared light-therapy device, alongside Casper Ruud and Mats Zuccarello.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.shifter.no/nyheter/odegaard-ruud-og-zuccarello-inn-i-startup-som-hevder-a-lindre-smerte-med-infrarodt-lys/272345", "sources": [ "https://www.shifter.no/nyheter/odegaard-ruud-og-zuccarello-inn-i-startup-som-hevder-a-lindre-smerte-med-infrarodt-lys/272345" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/martin-degaard/" }, { "name": "Leo Østigård", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "Norway", "hook": "Norway's 2026 World Cup defender has quietly built a personal index of Norwegian savings banks.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Lokkomo (savings-bank holdings)", "description": "His holding company Lokkomo owns equity certificates in more than 20 Norwegian savings banks and grew from about NOK 1M in assets (2021) to over NOK 40M (2025).", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.shifter.no/nyheter/disse-vm-spillerne-har-investert-i-startups/467847", "sources": [ "https://www.shifter.no/nyheter/disse-vm-spillerne-har-investert-i-startups/467847" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/leo-stig-rd/" }, { "name": "Jude Bellingham", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "England", "hook": "His Haaland bromance and quick brace made him one of England's most-talked-about players at the 2026 World Cup.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Birmingham Phoenix (The Hundred)", "description": "Bought a 1.2% stake in the Birmingham Phoenix cricket franchise, with a focus on community and grassroots work.", "year": 2026, "source": "https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/13534108/jude-bellingham-invests-in-birmingham-phoenix-in-the-hundred-i-owe-the-city-says-real-madrid-and-england-star", "sources": [ "https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/13534108/jude-bellingham-invests-in-birmingham-phoenix-in-the-hundred-i-owe-the-city-says-real-madrid-and-england-star", "https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/brings-magic-dust-inside-story-jude-bellinghams-birmingham-phoenix-investment-1533318" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/jude-bellingham/" }, { "name": "Harry Kane", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "England", "hook": "England's captain went viral for losing his voice at the 2026 World Cup; off the pitch he writes startup checks.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "LEAD Locker Room fund", "description": "Among the first athletes in LEAD's invite-only Locker Room fund, which backs sports and health startups such as TMRW Sports.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/english-mens-soccer-captain-harry-kane-liv-golf-star-brooks-koepka-st-louis-blues-captain-brayden-schenn-among-elite-athletes-joining-leads-locker-room-fund-302281788.html", "sources": [ "https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/english-mens-soccer-captain-harry-kane-liv-golf-star-brooks-koepka-st-louis-blues-captain-brayden-schenn-among-elite-athletes-joining-leads-locker-room-fund-302281788.html", "https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2024/10/21/finance-locker-room/" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "Seat Unique", "description": "Became a shareholder in the UK premium ticketing and hospitality platform.", "year": 2025, "source": "https://www.seatunique.com/blog/harry-kane-backs-premium-ticketing-platform-seat-unique/", "sources": [ "https://www.seatunique.com/blog/harry-kane-backs-premium-ticketing-platform-seat-unique/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/harry-kane/" }, { "name": "Bukayo Saka", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "England", "hook": "England winger in the 2026 World Cup squad, known off the pitch for funding children's surgery in Nigeria.", "ventures": [ { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "BigShoe surgeries", "description": "Funded 120 operations for children in Nigeria through the charity BigShoe.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://www.bbc.com/sport/africa/63677733", "sources": [ "https://www.bbc.com/sport/africa/63677733", "https://guardian.ng/sport/arsenal-star-saka-funds-120-life-changing-surgeries-for-nigerian-kids/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/bukayo-saka/" }, { "name": "Marcus Rashford", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "England", "hook": "The footballer who changed UK child-food policy also runs a book club and a children's book line.", "ventures": [ { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Marcus Rashford Book Club", "description": "Launched with Macmillan Children's Books and the National Literacy Trust to give free books to disadvantaged children.", "year": 2021, "source": "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-manchester-56798010", "sources": [ "https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-manchester-56798010", "https://literacytrust.org.uk/resources/marcus-rashford-book-club/" ] }, { "category": "creative", "title": "Children's books with Macmillan", "description": "Author of children's books published under his Pan Macmillan partnership.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.panmacmillan.com/blogs/books-for-children/marcus-rashford", "sources": [ "https://www.panmacmillan.com/blogs/books-for-children/marcus-rashford" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/marcus-rashford/" }, { "name": "Lionel Messi", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "Argentina", "hook": "Argentina's captain, whose side knocked England out of the 2026 World Cup semifinal, is now a club owner in Uruguay.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Deportivo LSM", "description": "Became co-owner, with Luis Suárez, of the Uruguayan club Suárez founded; it was renamed Deportivo LSM.", "year": 2025, "source": "https://apnews.com/article/messi-suarez-uruguay-team-miami-4644a1a47cf77f54f4ccb142aea32375", "sources": [ "https://apnews.com/article/messi-suarez-uruguay-team-miami-4644a1a47cf77f54f4ccb142aea32375", "https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/soccer/2025/05/27/messi-luis-surez-deportivo-lsm-soccer-uruguay/83879593007/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/lionel-messi/" }, { "name": "Kylian Mbappé", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "France", "hook": "France's captain and striker already owns a club back home.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "Stade Malherbe Caen", "description": "His company Interconnected Ventures, through Coalition Capital, bought a majority stake in the French club.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://apnews.com/article/mbappe-soccer-ownership-caen-5d47a347a44537c3045a485deea6e19c", "sources": [ "https://apnews.com/article/mbappe-soccer-ownership-caen-5d47a347a44537c3045a485deea6e19c", "https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c03ldg22yndo" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/kylian-mbapp/" }, { "name": "Cristiano Ronaldo", "sport": "Soccer", "status": "Active", "country": "Portugal", "hook": "The most-followed athlete on earth runs hotels and part-owns a Portuguese media group.", "ventures": [ { "category": "real estate", "title": "Pestana CR7 hotels", "description": "50/50 lifestyle-hotel partnership with Pestana Hotel Group, which has expanded to cities including Paris.", "year": 2016, "source": "https://www.pestanagroup.com/en/pestana-hotel-group-and-cristiano-ronaldo-open-hotel-in-paris/", "sources": [ "https://www.pestanagroup.com/en/pestana-hotel-group-and-cristiano-ronaldo-open-hotel-in-paris/", "https://expresso.pt/economia/2024-08-29-tentaculos-empresariais-de-cristiano-ronaldo-agarram-hoteis-jornais-e-aguas-23bc43f4" ] }, { "category": "film & media", "title": "Medialivre stake", "description": "His company CR7 S.A. took a 30% stake in Medialivre, owner of Correio da Manhã and CMTV.", "year": 2023, "source": "https://expresso.pt/economia/2024-08-29-tentaculos-empresariais-de-cristiano-ronaldo-agarram-hoteis-jornais-e-aguas-23bc43f4", "sources": [ "https://expresso.pt/economia/2024-08-29-tentaculos-empresariais-de-cristiano-ronaldo-agarram-hoteis-jornais-e-aguas-23bc43f4" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/cristiano-ronaldo/" }, { "name": "Virat Kohli", "sport": "Cricket", "status": "Active", "country": "India", "hook": "India's batting icon is a football club owner and a consumer-brand investor.", "ventures": [ { "category": "business", "title": "FC Goa", "description": "Joined the Indian Super League club as co-owner and ambassador.", "year": 2014, "source": "https://www.indiansuperleague.com/press-releases/fc-goa-announces-virat-kohli-as-new-co-owner-and-ambassador", "sources": [ "https://www.indiansuperleague.com/press-releases/fc-goa-announces-virat-kohli-as-new-co-owner-and-ambassador" ] }, { "category": "investing", "title": "WROGN", "description": "Investor in the fashion brand WROGN, which later received a ₹125 crore investment from Aditya Birla's TMRW.", "year": null, "source": "https://www.adityabirla.com/media/press-releases/tmrw-house-of-brands-makes-the-right-move-with-inr-125-cr-investment/", "sources": [ "https://www.adityabirla.com/media/press-releases/tmrw-house-of-brands-makes-the-right-move-with-inr-125-cr-investment/", "https://www.livemint.com/sports/cricket-news/virat-kohli-business-portfolio-from-vault-gyms-to-fc-goa-and-one8-check-companies-he-has-invested-in-11792933768335.html" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/virat-kohli/" }, { "name": "Rafael Nadal", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Retired", "country": "Spain", "hook": "The 22-time Slam champion co-owns a hotel brand with Meliá.", "ventures": [ { "category": "real estate", "title": "ZEL hotels", "description": "Launched the ZEL lifestyle hotel brand as a joint venture with Meliá Hotels International.", "year": 2022, "source": "https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/melia-hotels-international-and-tennis-player-rafael-nadal-launch-zel-a-new-lifestyle-hotel-brand-301704703.html", "sources": [ "https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/melia-hotels-international-and-tennis-player-rafael-nadal-launch-zel-a-new-lifestyle-hotel-brand-301704703.html" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/rafael-nadal/" }, { "name": "Roger Federer", "sport": "Tennis", "status": "Retired", "country": "Switzerland", "hook": "His sneaker bet on a Swiss startup turned into one of sport's best investments.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "On (running brand)", "description": "Joined Swiss running brand On as an investor and entrepreneur, working on product and marketing.", "year": 2019, "source": "https://press.on-running.com/roger-federer-joins-swiss-running-brand-on-as-an-entrepreneur", "sources": [ "https://press.on-running.com/roger-federer-joins-swiss-running-brand-on-as-an-entrepreneur" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/roger-federer/" }, { "name": "Siya Kolisi", "sport": "Rugby", "status": "Active", "country": "South Africa", "hook": "Two-time World Cup-winning Springbok captain who runs a foundation with his wife Rachel.", "ventures": [ { "category": "philanthropy", "title": "Kolisi Foundation", "description": "Founded with Rachel Kolisi in 2020 to tackle inequality in South African communities.", "year": 2020, "source": "https://kolisifoundation.org/kolisi-foundation-one-by-one-we-will-impact-the-nation/", "sources": [ "https://kolisifoundation.org/kolisi-foundation-one-by-one-we-will-impact-the-nation/" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/siya-kolisi/" }, { "name": "Nico Rosberg", "sport": "Formula 1", "status": "Retired", "country": "Germany", "hook": "The 2016 F1 world champion is now a venture capitalist.", "ventures": [ { "category": "investing", "title": "Rosberg Ventures", "description": "His venture firm launched a $75M fund of funds to back startups.", "year": 2024, "source": "https://tech.eu/2024/04/16/nico-rosenberg-launches-new-fund/", "sources": [ "https://tech.eu/2024/04/16/nico-rosenberg-launches-new-fund/", "https://www.eu-startups.com/2024/04/rosberg-ventures-announces-the-creation-of-a-new-over-e70-million-fund-of-funds-aimed-to-boost-global-startup-innovation" ] } ], "url": "https://hydrationbreak.co/athletes/nico-rosberg/" } ] }