In the world of billionaires, Michael Jordan stands out not only for his legendary basketball career but also for his business ventures and investments. Having played a sport as fast-paced as basketball all his life, Jordan’s love for golf entailed a drastic shift in pace. Wanting to bridge the two with a course tailored to a quicker pace of play gave birth to Grove XXIII.
And, well, the creation of this $20 million ultra-private and exclusive personal golf course gave him the added privilege of controlling the guest list. However, significant aspects could only be possible due to his Cuban wife, Yvette Prieto.
In a recent article by CNN, Michael Jordan’s golf course was described as more than just a recreational facility. It’s a testament to his success and the lifestyle of the elite. The decision to invest such a significant sum in a private golf course speaks volumes about Jordan’s passion for the sport and commitment to creating an unparalleled experience. Everything, from its choice of location to one of Grove XXIII’s most eye-catching assets – its clubhouse – has a touch of Prieto’s influence.
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Grove XXIII is located in Hobe Sound, Florida, and opened in the fall of 2019. What does this have to do with Jordan’s Cuban wife? As it turns out, Florida was where the power couple first met in 2008. It’s also the state with the largest Cuban population in the United States. After getting married in 2013, they moved into their luxurious mansion in Jupiter, Florida. And six years later, Grove XXIII was born.
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Looking at the course, it seems Yvette Prieto was right alongside Michael Jordan in the design meetings. As a model with an eye for aesthetics and elegance, Yvette Prieto’s preferences and tastes complemented Jordan’s love of leather and wood. And they are aspects that resonate throughout the 15,000-square-foot clubhouse. To create an atmosphere that aligned with her and Jordan’s refined taste, they employed Nichols Architects and Dailey Janssen.
The choice to engage a firm specializing in hospitality, residential, and commercial design led to the creation of a design masterpiece – a curved structure “inspired by the precision and flow of a golf swing,” per Architectural Digest. Interestingly, as per CNN, the firm’s previous work on the W South Beach in Miami – one of Prieto’s favorite hotels, implies a connection between the designer’s expertise and the couple’s personal preferences.
This choice likely ensures that the golf course not only meets the highest standards but also reflects the opulence and sophistication associated with the Jordan-Prieto lifestyle.
The ultra-private and exclusive element
The decision to make the golf course ultra-private and exclusive further underscores Michael Jordan’s desire for exclusivity and a personalized experience. This exclusivity aligns with the trend among high-profile individuals to seek private spaces away from the public eye. It becomes a symbol of the luxury and privilege that come with being a billionaire.
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Here’s video Caroline Wozniacki posted yesterday of the food and drink delivery by drone out at Michael Jordan’s newish golf course, Grove XXIII. (Also the scooters in the background) pic.twitter.com/QEAyUCI0yO
— Brendan Porath (@BrendanPorath) December 7, 2020
Beyond being a mere golf course, Jordan’s $20 million investment is a statement about his commitment to a certain lifestyle. It’s a manifestation of his success, and the desire to surround himself and his loved ones with the best life has to offer. The attention to detail, luxurious amenities, and personalized design indicate a lifestyle befitting a sports icon of Jordan’s stature.
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The potential influence of Yvette Prieto in the decision-making process adds a personal touch to this grand project. This emphasizes the couple’s commitment to creating an extraordinary haven. What are your thoughts on the golf course? Let us know in the comments below.