Lindsey Vonn: From Olympic Gold to Women’s Sports Investment
In a recent interview, Lindsey Vonn, the three-time Olympic gold medalist and retired alpine skier, discussed her new role as part-owner of Utah Royals FC and her passion for investing in women’s sports. Vonn, who sat in an executive office in Sandy, Utah, donned a royal blue sweatshirt with the club’s logo proudly displayed across the front. She believes that her involvement in investing in women’s sports will further contribute to the growing boom of women’s professional and collegiate sports in the United States.
Finding Her Calling in Retirement
Vonn, now 39 years old, retired from competitive downhill skiing over five years ago. Since then, she has been searching for her post-racing purpose. She explained that she enjoys paving paths that have not been explored before and making it easier for the next generation to achieve their dreams. “I like setting paths that no one else has paved before and making it easier for someone coming up behind me to achieve what they dream,” Vonn expressed.
Joining the Ownership Group of Utah Royals FC
Last week, it was announced that Vonn had joined the ownership group of Utah Royals FC, alongside co-owners David Blitzer and Ryan Smith. This move follows a trend within the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL), where clubs are adding celebrities, current athletes, and former star athletes to their ownership groups. Vonn sees this as an opportunity to make a significant impact on young girls who aspire to play in the NWSL. She stated, “There will be girls that are here watching the game today that will be in the NWSL — without question. That’s what gets me up every morning is trying to make those kinds of impacts on young girls.”
Empowering Others Through Investment
For Vonn, investing in women’s sports allows her to have a more significant impact than when she was racing. She believes that by investing in others, she can empower and inspire young athletes directly or indirectly. Reflecting on her own experience as a young ski racer, Vonn wondered how much more empowered she would have felt if she had received investment and support from star athletes like Serena Williams, Naomi Osaka, or Patrick Mahomes. “I feel like now I’m in a position to empower so many more people directly or indirectly instead of just performing or inspiring by my performance,” Vonn explained.
A Familiar Journey in NWSL Ownership
Vonn’s ownership of Utah Royals FC is not her first venture into the NWSL. She is also a minority investor in Angel City FC, alongside tennis legend Serena Williams, Billie Jean King, and other celebrities, former national team players, and professional athletes. Having witnessed the galvanizing effect of an NWSL franchise on a community through her involvement with Angel City FC, Vonn understands the potential impact of the Royals’ return to Utah. The team previously left the market due to a toxic environment under the former ownership group. However, with new owners and Vonn’s support, the Royals are back and ready to make a difference.
The Gravity of the Moment
Lindsey Vonn’s understanding of the gravity of the moment is one of the key reasons why her partnership with Utah Royals FC is so meaningful. Throughout her racing career, Vonn used her platform to advocate for gender and pay equity. She firmly believes that the rising popularity of women’s sports is not just a moment but a movement. Her representation as part-owner extends beyond her achievements as an athlete and resonates with staff and players alike.
Investing in Community and Future Generations
Vonn’s involvement with Utah Royals FC also extends to a partnership with her foundation. The foundation has pledged to provide 25 tickets per match to girls in underserved communities in Utah. Vonn hopes to increase this number in the future and make a lasting impact on young girls’ lives through the sport. Despite losing their season opener to the Chicago Red Stars, the Royals remain optimistic about their future and the positive changes they can bring to women’s soccer.
Expanding Investments in Women’s Sports
When asked if her involvement with Utah Royals FC was just the beginning, Vonn expressed her interest in investing in more women’s sports ventures. She mentioned her affinity for the WNBA and the need for increased pay equity and airtime for its players. Vonn believes that her racing days may be over, but she is far from retired. She sees her ownership of the Royals as just the start of a journey to make a greater impact. “Become louder together,” Vonn proclaimed, “and the impact is greater.”
In conclusion, Lindsey Vonn’s investment in Utah Royals FC represents her commitment to empowering young girls and promoting women’s sports. As a retired Olympic champion, Vonn has found a new calling in supporting and investing in athletes. Her involvement in both the NWSL and WNBA demonstrates her dedication to creating a lasting impact on women’s sports and inspiring future generations. With Vonn’s passion and determination, the future of women’s sports looks brighter than ever.