Success for an athlete after their career is over can be hard to come by. While dominating their respective sport comes naturally to our stars, post-retirement can be a tricky time. However, there are some who find an equal measure of success once they have hung up their boots. Chief among them from the NBA’s side of things is Shaquille O’Neal. But, is his empire under threat? And that too by a legend who he called out during her retirement?

Whether it is the movie industry, comedy, sports analysis, DJing, or becoming a business mogul, O’Neal is everywhere. After expanding his empire across various ventures, the sky is the limit for the 4x NBA Champion.

Could Serena Williams overtake Shaq’s business empire?

Even though the early stages of his career saw deals with major brands, today, his aura is more diverse. While names like Reebok, Pepsi, and Taco Bell were the biggest contributors to his net worth, now his decisions are far more calculated.

Over the years, the Los Angeles Lakers legend has attributed Magic Johnson as an inspiration. According to Shaq’s interview with the LA Times, it was Magic’s example that taught him the value of a strong business career aside from basketball in him. In turn, Magic praised the big man’s efforts to expand as a businessman.

But, it seems like more people are now following the model. Case-in-point, Serena Williams started a venture capital fund in hopes of investing in underrepresented founders and women. Her strategy has been very intentional, from the partners she works with to the investments she supports. The entire model is eerily similar to a certain Miami Heat legend.

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While the major contributor to the 7-footer’s success has been his likeability and amicable personality, Williams was one of the few who did not get to see it at its best.

Shaquille O’Neal took shots at the tennis icon

The moment came about at a time when the entire world was talking about the tennis great. For the 23-time Grand Slam singles title winner, the Shaq diss came during her retirement.

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As support and words of praise poured in from every corner, O’Neal’s words seemed a little harsh. According to him, it was time for the legendary woman to retire as she could not dominate her sport the way she used to.

The big man tried to clarify that his comments were spoken as an inevitability about “Father Time“. Yet, on such a historic day, the comments seemed a little insensitive. But, it feels like Williams is finally coming for payback. Maybe one day soon, we can talk about her as the face of athletes turned business moguls.