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Xtra Time Web Desk: Through the years, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved into an all-encompassing entity that attracts viewership from across the globe. This interest is best illustrated by the recent addition of the two new teams that were sold for a cumulative ~$1.7bn. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the champions of the inaugural edition, Rajasthan Royals, have attracted investment from US elite athletes Chris Paul, Larry Fitzgerald and Kelvin Beachum.

The trio have come on board as investors in the Rajasthan-based franchise. Investing through Emerging Media Ventures, the vehicle 100% controlled by Manoj Badale, Paul, Fitzgerald and Beachum will become minority investors in the franchise.

Paul is one of the greatest defenders to have graced the NBA court with 11 NBA All-Star team appearances, two Olympic Gold medals, and more recently taking the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals. Paul’s investment portfolio includes a stake in the minor league baseball team Winston-Salem Dash, and with an eye on enhancing the fan experience in the IPL, the 36-year-old defender has chosen to invest in the Royals.

The NFL’s legendary wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who played with the Arizona Cardinals for 17 seasons and received countless accolades including 11 Pro Bowl appearances and the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year in 2016, is also known as a serious investor and philanthropist.

Kelvin Beachum is a 10-year NFL veteran who currently plays for the Arizona Cardinals. In addition to his professional football commitments, he is an active investor, especially in technology, and a board member at NFL Players Association. 

The alignment with US athletes promises to be productive. “We are extremely pleased to have Chris, Larry and Kelvin join us as investors who have seen the vision of the Royals as a truly global brand” said Manoj Badale, the lead owner, as he welcomed the US trio as investors in the franchise.