Roger Federer partnered with On Running and invested in the Swiss shoe company five years ago. But at the time, who would have imagined that the Swiss Maestro would be considering his future with Nike and switching to another shoe brand? In 2018, he left Nike and chose to work with On Running. And believe it or not, five years down the line, it’s the best business decision that the former tennis player has ever made. Let’s see why.
The former world number one has made some stunning business choices over his career. He has worked with well-known companies like Nike, but he has also elevated smaller sporting organizations to the point where they can now compete fiercely with other well-known athletic brands.
Why Roger Federer left Nike to make a deal with On Running?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In 2018, the former world number one decided to end his partnership with Nike, with whom he spent 20 years of his tennis career. But, rather than getting paid for his work, the Swiss legend chose to have his own stake in the company, making the biggest investment decision of his life.
Following his split with Nike, the 20-time Grand Slam champion invested in a Swiss sportswear company as a part of an endorsement agreement. He rejected a $10 million deal with Nike because there were definitely other plans for him. After that, he signed a deal with On Running, and his stakes were estimated to be around 3%. And according to the current evaluation, the brand is worth $300 million at the IPO.
Without a doubt, the Swiss ace decided to assume ownership rather than receive payment for his sponsorship with Nike for the next 20 years. That too, his ownership not only benefited him but also greatly benefited the other party.
Roger Federer rejected $10M a year with Nike for a 3% stake in On Running, worth $300M at the IPO.
This is the new creator economy, taking ownership instead of paycheck & both parties massively benefit! pic.twitter.com/OGdWPciMDQ
— Jake Lee 💡 (@jakelee_co) June 6, 2023
Along with this great move, he also made another business deal with Uniqlo that is still going strong.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Federer’s 10-year-long investment deal with Uniqlo
After leaving Nike, the Swiss Maestro signed with a number of other companies in addition to On Running. The same year, he did, however, also agree to a 10-year, $300 million contract with Uniqlo. This implies that he would make $30 million a year. Or simply $20 million more than Nike was prepared to offer him at that time.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
WATCH THIS STORY – The Journey of Roger Federer to the Elite Billionaire’s Club
Additionally, there was another intriguing aspect of his agreement with Uniqlo; it excludes the shoe deal. As a result, he eventually agreed to a contract with On Running Shoes, which produces ideal, comfy shoes for other sportsmen.
Challenge Your Sports Knowledge!
Solve the puzzle and prove your knowledge of iconic players, terms, and moments.