Pau Gasol: From sports idol to entrepreneur committed to the future

The renowned former basketball player Pau Gasol has made a mark in the sports world with his brilliant career in the NBA and his outstanding participation in international competitions. However, beyond his career on the court, Gasol has embarked on a new path in the business world, where he sees athletes as true "rough diamonds" with significant potential for companies. During his participation in the Expansión & Marca Business Sport Forum, Gasol expressed his conviction that elite athletes can contribute much more than their image and commercial value to companies. In this sense, he advocated for a model in which athletes can become part of the shareholding of the companies they represent, thus establishing a stronger and mutually beneficial relationship. Gasol emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the companies he collaborates with and getting involved in their teams. He stressed that his value as a retired athlete goes beyond a superficial commercial relationship, as he aims to provide significant internal value based on the identity and values of the companies he associates with. The former player highlighted the positive evolution in the relationship between athletes and companies, pointing out that there is now a search for greater authenticity and depth in these partnerships. He considers it essential for this relationship to endure beyond the athletes' sports careers, generating synergies that benefit both athletes and companies in the long term. In a context of constant changes in the world, Gasol underlined the need for sports to evolve and adapt to new trends and opportunities emerging in the business world. He emphasized the importance of investing in initiatives and businesses related to sports that stand out and excel in an increasingly competitive environment. When asked about the entrepreneurial facet of other athletes, such as Gerard Piqué, Gasol expressed admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit of his colleagues, although he noted that each one has their own approach and style when tackling business projects. He highlighted the importance of surrounding oneself with strong management teams and collaborating with individuals who complement individual skills in the business world. Finally, Gasol highlighted the work of his foundation in the fight against childhood obesity, collaborating with organizations such as UNICEF and the WHO to promote healthy habits and proper nutrition among young people. He emphasized the importance of addressing this issue comprehensively and collaboratively, involving different sectors in promoting the health and well-being of children. In summary, Pau Gasol stands out as an example of an athlete who transcends the boundaries of the playing field to venture into the business world, advocating for a deeper and more meaningful relationship between athletes and companies, as well as for an active commitment to promoting the health and well-being of new generations. His vision of athletes as valuable assets for companies opens up new perspectives in the relationship between sports and the business world, betting on lasting and beneficial alliances for both parties.