Paris 2024: A Milestone, Not a Destination
The Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics marked a turning point—achieving full gender parity for the first time in Olympic history. Every female athlete who took the field wasn’t just competing; she was breaking barriers and proving that resilience knows no gender.
Yet, in business, women remain underrepresented in leadership. Athletes demonstrate discipline, mental toughness, and teamwork—qualities essential for business success. What if organizations saw athletes not just as sports icons but as future leaders?
From the Arena to the Executive Suite: Bridging the Gap with Data
The transition from sports to business is not merely anecdotal; it’s supported by compelling data.
Athletic Background and Leadership:
Research indicates a strong correlation between athletic participation and leadership success. A study published by Psychology Today found that approximately 66% of corporate leaders played sports at the collegiate level, demonstrating the prevalence of athletic backgrounds in high-achieving individuals.
Furthermore, a 2023 study revealed that an astonishing 93% of female executives earning over $100K had sporting backgrounds. This statistic powerfully underscores the value of sports as a springboard for women into executive roles.
Transferable Skills and Business Acumen:
Studies consistently demonstrate that athletes develop crucial leadership skills, such as resilience, teamwork, and strategic thinking. Research on team cohesion shows that athlete leaders tend to increase team cohesion. It is important to acknowledge that business skills such as financial analysis, and market strategy are also important, and that athletes may need to learn these skills.
Real-World Examples:
- Serena Williams’ Serena Ventures has invested in numerous women- and minority-led businesses, showcasing the entrepreneurial drive cultivated in competitive sports.
- Susie Wolff’s leadership in the F1 Academy is driving tangible change in motorsports, demonstrating the impact of former athletes in shaping their industries.
- Naomi Osaka’s brand deals, and business ventures, have shown that athletes can create high value business ventures.
India’s Paralympic Champions: Defying Limits, Inspiring Change
- Avani Lekhara, Bhavina Patel, and Sheetal Devi’s extraordinary achievements in the Paralympics exemplify the power of resilience and determination. Their stories serve as powerful reminders that perceived limitations can be overcome with grit and perseverance.
What Businesses Can Learn from Women in Sports
Women in sports prove that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about relentless determination, strategic thinking, and the ability to lead under pressure. Businesses striving for excellence can take key lessons from female athletes:
- Hire Athletes for Leadership Roles – Their discipline, resilience, and competitive spirit make them natural leaders who thrive under pressure.
- Foster a Winning Culture – Just like elite sports teams, companies should prioritize coaching, mentorship, and continuous growth to develop high-performing teams.
- Invest in Women’s Sports – Supporting female athletes isn’t just about visibility; it’s a strategic business move that builds brand credibility and inspires the next generation of leaders.
The Importance of Systemic Change
It is important to understand that while hiring former athletes is a good idea, that true gender equality in the work place, will require systemic change. This includes things such as, equal pay, and equal access to advancement opportunities.
The Paris 2024 Games showcased the immense potential of women in sports. Now, it’s time for businesses to recognize and capitalize on this potential. By embracing inclusive practices and fostering a culture of growth, organizations can unlock the leadership potential of women athletes and drive lasting success. Because champions aren’t just made on the field—they’re built in every challenge they overcome, every barrier they break, and every legacy they leave behind.
Article written by Jasmine Haria, CFR Global Executive Search Singapore
Photo Olympics.com