The global sports industry continues its rapid expansion, with projections indicating it will reach $680 billion by 2028.
Despite this substantial revenue growth, many athletes face significant financial challenges post-retirement.
The average professional athletic career is relatively short. Injuries, age, and performance decline can lead to early retirement, leaving athletes with a limited time to earn substantial income.
For instance, in the NFT, the average career length is approximately 3.3 years.
This can vary by position, with running backs often having shorter careers of around 2.6 years due to the physical demands of their role.
In soccer, likewise, players typically have careers that span about 8 years on average.
Furthermore, during their careers, athletes often maintain high living standards, including expensive homes, cars, and luxury items.
These expenses can become unsustainable once their regular income stops.
The sports industry’s booming revenue does not translate into long-term financial security for most athletes.
Traditional income streams for athletes include contracts, endorsements, and sponsorships.
While top athletes secure lucrative deals, the majority struggle with financial instability, particularly after their professional careers end.
According to Scottish professional football player and manager Craig Brown, 78% of professional athletes experience severe financial difficulties within three years of retirement.
Another survey reveals that approximately 78% of NFL players face financial stress or bankruptcy within two years of retirement, and around 60% of NBA players are broke within five years of retiring.
This stark statistic underscores the need for more sustainable financial solutions for
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