Gareth Bale, now 36 and retired from professional football, has stepped away from the game with no regrets. During a stop at The Athletic's office in Manhattan, he told reporters he does not miss playing. "No, not really," he said when asked if he missed the sport. That clarity, he suggested, came from knowing there would always be a beginning and an end to his career.
Bale's visit coincided with the World Cup's opening days. He planned to watch Kylian Mbappe's France open their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Senegal at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The former Real Madrid star reflected on his time under Jose Mourinho, though he did not elaborate further on their relationship during the brief interview.
Beyond his own legacy, Bale expressed enthusiasm for investing in women's sports. He did not specify which leagues or teams he is targeting, but framed the move as a forward-looking shift in his post-playing career. The decision aligns with broader trends of former athletes and high-net-worth individuals funneling capital into the rapidly growing sector.
Still, critics may question the scale of Bale's financial commitment. While his interest is notable, he has yet to publicly announce any concrete investments or partnerships. Without specific figures or team affiliations, it remains unclear how active a role he will take in the women's sports landscape.
Bale's next moves remain private, but his public shift toward investment signals a methodical transition from the pitch to the boardroom. Future announcements, if any, will offer a clearer picture of his portfolio.