NBA All-Star Kevin Durant has acquired a stake in the French football club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). This move follows his earlier investment of 5% in Major League Soccer’s Philadelphia Union in 2020, further expanding his business ventures as he becomes a part-owner of the Champions League winners.
On Friday, PSG announced a strategic partnership with Durant, facilitated by its majority owner, Qatar Sports Investment (QSI). The specifics of the deal have not been disclosed.
According to PSG’s statement, "Under the terms of the partnership, Durant will gain a direct minority stake in the club through a media and investment firm that he co-founded with his long-time associate Rich Clyman."
In a statement, Durant expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I am honored to partner with QSI and become a shareholder in Paris Saint-Germain. The club has ambitious plans, and we are excited to be part of its next growth phase and explore new investment opportunities through QSI."
PSG highlighted that Durant, a two-time NBA champion, will help with strategies for diversification and growth in both US and international markets. He is also expected to leverage PSG’s experience in multisport strategies, including basketball, as the club has activities in soccer, handball, and esports.
Durant, along with Clyman’s investment firm Boardroom Sports Holdings, will work with QSI on commercial initiatives, investment projects, and content development. Boardroom also holds stakes in the Brooklyn Ace from Major League Pickleball and Gotham City FC of the NWSL.
This investment comes as discussions are underway among the NBA, FIBA, and other organizations to establish a new basketball league in Europe. PSG’s Nasser Al Khelaifi commented, "We look forward to developing an ambitious initiative with Kevin to foster the global growth of Paris Saint-Germain and QSI."
In addition to showcasing their dominance by defeating Inter Milan 5-0 in the Champions League Final, PSG secured the French Ligue 1 title with a record of 26 wins, 6 draws, and 2 losses, finishing 19 points ahead of second-place Marseille. Currently, they are competing in the 2025 Club World Cup in the US, set to face the Seattle Sounders in their next match, with advancement to the knockout stage on the line.
Durant has just wrapped up his third season with the Suns and is engaged in discussions regarding potential trades, especially after the team failed to qualify for the postseason. He averaged 26 points and six rebounds per game this season, despite ending with a left ankle sprain.
Fan Take: This news matters to soccer fans as it signifies a growing trend of cross-sport investments that could bring fresh insights and resources to clubs like PSG. As star athletes like Durant engage in soccer, it opens doors for innovative partnerships and opportunities that may enhance the global reach and competitive quality of the sport.
