Zidane Opens Cafe, Beckham Builds Personal Brand

When football legends Zinedine Zidane and David Beckham weren’t on the pitch, they were building businesses far from the game—but both stayed close to their public personas. Zidane stepped into the specialty coffee scene as an owner, while Beckham turned his own image into a global brand. Their stories show how elite athletes parlay fame into commercial success, whether through a café or personal marketing.

Zidane bought a café in Bordeaux in 2003 and later opened another in Marseille. Beckham built a company that earned millions annually, mostly from his own image and endorsements.

Zidane’s Entry into the Café Business

In May 2003, during the season break, French football icon Zinedine Zidane and his teammate Christian Dugarry purchased a café named “Casino” located in Bordeaux. Although Zidane took on the role of owner, the daily operations were managed by one of his relatives. The opening drew significant attention: Zidane personally cut the ribbon, and fans flocked to the café to meet him. He spent much of the day signing autographs, which helped make the café an immediate success. Buoyed by this outcome, Zidane later opened a second café in Marseille.

Beckham’s Self-Made Brand

David Beckham, known as the “King of Commercial Appeal,” built a business model centered almost entirely on promoting himself. Shortly after beginning his professional career in 1996, he established his own company, “Beckham Limited.” This venture generated annual revenues in the tens of millions of British pounds. The income streams included his salary—£4.4 million per year during his time at Real Madrid—as well as endorsement deals with major brands such as Adidas, Gillette, PepsiCo, and Vodafone.

The Structure Behind Beckham’s Company

Beckham Limited had only one shareholder: David Beckham himself. His father was appointed as company manager in 2004, but the role was handed over to Beckham’s father-in-law, Tony Adams, the following year. Victoria Beckham, also known as “Posh Spice,” held the title of company secretary. Despite changes in management, the company remained wholly owned and operated around Beckham’s personal brand.

Why Football Stars Turn to Entrepreneurship

Both Zidane and Beckham demonstrate how high-profile athletes can extend their influence beyond sports. Zidane chose a tangible business in the hospitality sector, specifically the specialty coffee market, while Beckham capitalized on intangible assets—his likeness and global recognition. Their approaches reflect different strategies for leveraging fame, but both resulted in profitable and enduring ventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What café did Zidane buy in 2003?

In May 2003, Zinedine Zidane and Christian Dugarry purchased a café called “Casino” in Bordeaux, France. Zidane became the owner, although a relative managed daily operations.

Did Zidane open more than one café?

Yes, after the success of the Bordeaux café, Zidane opened a second café in Marseille, further expanding his involvement in the café business.

How did Beckham make money before 2000?

Beckham earned income primarily through his salary at Real Madrid—£4.4 million per year—and a wide range of advertising deals with companies like Adidas, Gillette, PepsiCo, and Vodafone.

What company did Beckham create in 1996?

In 1996, David Beckham founded “Beckham Limited,” a company that provided services related to his brand and generated millions in annual revenue.

Who managed Beckham’s company after 2004?

After his father served as manager in 2004, Beckham Limited’s management was taken over by his father-in-law, Tony Adams, in 2005. Victoria Beckham held the title of company secretary.

Why did fans visit Zidane’s Bordeaux café?

Fans visited the “Casino” café in Bordeaux to see Zidane in person. His appearance and autograph sessions contributed to the café’s immediate popularity and strong business.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Café Culture

For fans of café culture inspired by personalities like Zidane, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for its bright citrus and floral notes, or the Colombia Huila for a balanced profile with caramel and almond sweetness. Both beans shine in espresso or pour-over and reflect the craftsmanship behind specialty coffee—an industry Zidane entered with his Bordeaux café. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.