Eran Zahavi Invests Millions in New Padel Ventures

Former Israeli football star Eran Zahavi, recently retired from professional play, is launching significant business ventures, leveraging his estimated net worth of approximately 250 million shekels, making him the highest-earning Israeli footballer of all time. Zahavi amassed his wealth through substantial salaries and bonuses during his career, particularly in China and Europe, alongside real estate investments in Israel and Dubai and various advertising campaigns.

His latest endeavor involves a major investment in the rapidly growing sport of padel. Zahavi has partnered with American businessman Joey Lau, who resides in Israel and has previously invested in companies like WeWork, to establish "Padel Ra'anana Premium Indoor Club." This project, estimated at 12 million shekels with 10 million funded by equity, aims to create one of Israel's largest and most advanced indoor padel facilities in Ra'anana. The complex will feature indoor courts, a gym, lounge areas, a sauna, a wellness center, and spectator stands.

In parallel, Zahavi has launched the "EZ7 Padel Tour," a national padel league designed to unite the growing padel community in Israel and tour various facilities across the country. This league is projected to generate monthly revenues of around 50,000 shekels, in addition to income from tournaments, related activities, and sponsorships.

Zahavi expressed his passion for the sport, stating, "I fell in love with padel and am trying to take it one step further. Football will always be in my heart, but right now I'm focused on other things." This follows his recent purchase of two luxury apartments in Yehud-Monosson for approximately 11 million shekels, a deal that also includes him becoming the official spokesperson for the development company.