Introduction
Anze Kopitar is a Slovenian professional ice hockey player who currently serves as the captain of the Los Angeles Kings of the National Hockey League (NHL). He has been a dominant player in the NHL for over a decade and has a successful career with numerous accolades to his name. As a result, Kopitar has amassed significant wealth throughout his career, making him one of the richest ice hockey players in the world. In this article, we will break down Anze Kopitar’s impressive net worth and explore different aspects that have contributed to his wealth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Anze Kopitar was born on August 24, 1987, in Jesenice, Slovenia. He started playing ice hockey at a very young age and showed tremendous potential. He made his professional debut with the Slovenian club HK Kranjska Gora during the 2003–04 season. Subsequently, he moved to Sweden to continue his development, playing for the Södertälje SK junior team. Kopitar was eventually drafted in the first round, 11th overall by the Los Angeles Kings in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.
NHL Career
Since joining the NHL, Anze Kopitar has become one of the top players in the league. He has won two Stanley Cup championships with the Los Angeles Kings, in 2012 and 2014. Kopitar has been named an NHL All-Star six times, has won the Selke Trophy twice, and has been a finalist for the Hart Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player, on multiple occasions.
Salary and Endorsements
Anze Kopitar’s success on the ice has allowed him to earn a significant amount of money throughout his career. His current contract with the Los Angeles Kings is worth $80 million over eight years, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. In addition to his salary, Kopitar has several high-profile endorsement deals, including with brands such as Nike, Bauer, and Gatorade.
Investments and Business Ventures
Anze Kopitar has also dabbled in business ventures outside of hockey. In 2012, he became the co-owner of a Slovenian-based energy drink company named “Kopitar’s Eleven,” which has since expanded to other countries. He also invested in the restaurant industry by opening a sushi restaurant named “Nobu Los Angeles” in support of his close friend and co-owner, chef Nobu Matsuhisa.
Real Estate
Anze Kopitar has invested a significant portion of his wealth in real estate. He owns multiple properties, including a luxurious home in Manhattan Beach, California, which he purchased for $10.5 million in 2019. Kopitar also owns a vacation home in Miami, Florida.
Charitable Contributions
In addition to his business ventures and investments, Anze Kopitar is also known for his charitable contributions. He runs his own charity foundation in Slovenia, which supports various causes, including children’s hospitals, education, and sports development programs. He has also partnered with the Kings Care Foundation to help raise money for various charities in the Los Angeles area.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Anze Kopitar is actively involved in several philanthropic endeavors that aim to make a difference in the world. In 2020, he was appointed as the UNICEF ambassador for Slovenia. He uses his platform to raise awareness and funds for UNICEF programs that support children’s rights and development.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Anze Kopitar’s impressive net worth is a testament to his success and hard work throughout his career. He has earned a significant amount of money through his NHL career, endorsements, investments, business ventures, and real estate. Furthermore, he has used his wealth to support various charitable causes, making him not just a successful athlete but also a committed philanthropist.
FAQs
Q1. What is Anze Kopitar’s net worth?
Anze Kopitar’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million.
Q2. What is Anze Kopitar’s current contract with the Los Angeles Kings?
Anze Kopitar’s current contract with the Los Angeles Kings is worth $80 million over eight years.
Q3. What business ventures is Anze Kopitar involved in?
Anze Kopitar is involved in the energy drink industry as the co-owner of “Kopitar’s Eleven” and the restaurant industry as one of the co-owners of “Nobu Los Angeles.”
Q4. What philanthropic endeavors is Anze Kopitar involved in?
Anze Kopitar is actively involved in various philanthropic endeavors, including his own charity foundation in Slovenia and as the UNICEF ambassador for Slovenia.
Q5. What are some of Anze Kopitar’s major achievements in his NHL career?
Anze Kopitar has won two Stanley Cups with the Los Angeles Kings, has been named an NHL All-Star six times, and has won the Selke Trophy twice.