Golf star Rory McIlroy has announced a major business move: partnering with global investment firm TPG to launch TPG Sports, a dedicated platform for sports investments. The initiative reflects McIlroy’s shift toward selective competition and long-term business strategy inspired by Roger Federer.
At the CNBC CEO Council Forum in Palm Beach on Nov. 21, Rory McIlroy outlined his next chapter beyond the fairways: a strategic alliance with TPG, one of the world’s largest private equity firms, to create TPG Sports. The platform will invest in companies, leagues, and technologies shaping the future of sports—from media rights and fan engagement to performance analytics and immersive experiences.
McIlroy and his business partner Sean O’Flaherty, through their firm Symphony Ventures, will act as operating partners, sourcing deals and driving value creation. Backed by Abu Dhabi-based Lunate Capital, the venture aims to capitalize on a sports market projected to exceed $500 billion by 2030, fueled by digital transformation, streaming, and interactive fan experiences.
The move mirrors lessons McIlroy drew from Roger Federer, who built a billion-dollar brand through selective appearances and equity stakes in companies like On Running. McIlroy plans a similar pivot: fewer tournaments, more meaningful appearances, and deeper involvement in ventures that redefine sports consumption.
For the athlete economy, this signals a growing trend: elite players leveraging their credibility and networks to shape investment flows. TPG Sports will not only fund innovation but also blur lines between performance, entertainment, and technology—creating new revenue streams for athletes, brands, and leagues. As McIlroy put it: “Sports is undergoing a big transformation. We’re building the infrastructure that will power its next generation.”
About Rory McIlroy
Rory McIlroy is well known in the sporting goods industry for his long-standing partnership with Nike, which began in 2013 with one of the most lucrative endorsement deals in golf history. While Nike exited the golf equipment market in 2017, McIlroy continues to represent the brand for apparel and footwear under an extended contract.
Beyond Nike, McIlroy has a prominent equipment deal with TaylorMade, signed in 2017 and renewed in 2022, covering clubs, balls, and bags. This partnership positions him at the forefront of performance innovation in golf gear. He is also a global ambassador for Omega, the Swiss luxury watchmaker, reinforcing his premium lifestyle image and aligning with precision and performance values
About TPG Sports and Symphony Ventures
TPG Sports is a dedicated investment platform launched by TPG, managing $200 billion in assets, in partnership with McIlroy’s Symphony Ventures. Symphony, founded in 2019, has invested in sports-adjacent businesses including GolfPass, Puttery, and TMRW Sports, the tech-driven golf league co-founded with Tiger Woods.
