An athlete’s life is marked by high performance, discipline, and victories. But beyond the spotlight and the adrenaline of competitions, there is an aspect that requires attention: financial security. More than just saving money for the future, ensuring financial stability means being prepared to handle unforeseen events and maintaining a comfortable lifestyle, even after retiring from sports or transitioning to a new career. This reality is especially important for athletes, whose careers often have a limited duration.
The Brazilian delegation at the Paris Olympics is a classic example of an athlete’s life. With an average age of 27 among the 277 Brazilian representatives in 2024, many of these athletes are nearing early retirement. Most high-performance sports rarely offer opportunities for athletes over 35, raising the question: what are the next steps? Brazil’s top medalist in this edition of the Olympic Games, Rebeca Andrade, won four medals and is already preparing for new opportunities, such as studying psychology. According to the Brazilian Olympic Committee, the gymnast will receive R$ 826,000 in prizes for her achievements. However, outside the competition seasons, the situation can be different. Many athletes rely on sponsorships and contracts that, while providing high income peaks, are short-lived and may drastically decrease after retirement. Considering the frequent risk of injuries, the sports world demands intense professional choices that bring challenges and instability.
The situation is even more complicated for less recognized athletes, who often do not receive the appropriate incentives and are subject to different styles of financial management that are not always aligned with their goals. It is common to find athletes whose finances are managed by family members with little knowledge or by individuals who are not always well-intentioned. Additionally, many athletes live and compete in different countries, requiring attention to legislative variations to avoid significant financial losses and future problems.
Planning for the future means having the freedom to make choices and follow your dreams. This could include dedicating yourself to social projects, enjoying life with family and friends, or investing in new businesses and ventures. An example of this is the sailor Matheus Dellagnelo, a Pan American medalist and co-founder of Incidium Tech, a company specializing in data science and analytics, which was highlighted in Exame’s 2023 Business Expansion Ranking. Athletes who manage their finances with the same dedication they apply to their careers protect and multiply their earnings both in the present and the future. Proper financial planning is essential to ensure that success on the fields, courts, and arenas translates into a life of achievements and security off them. Financial planning for athletes is not just a trend, it is a necessity. With careers that are often short and subject to highs and lows, structured financial management ensures that today’s earnings translate into security and freedom in the future.
As an athlete, you already know what it takes to achieve success. Now, it’s time to ensure that your success in sports translates into financial security. At Upside Investment, we offer the strategies and support needed to protect and multiply your earnings. Contact us to learn how we can help you.