Itumeleng Khune remains a prominent figure in football, with a career marked by notable achievements on and off the pitch. His name resonates with fans for his exceptional performances as a goalkeeper and his contributions to several memorable matches. This article presents an in-depth review of Itumeleng Khune’s financial standing as projected in 2025. The discussion covers his career progression, earnings from club contracts, endorsement deals, investments, and the strategic choices that have shaped his financial growth over the years.
What is Itumeleng Khune’s net worth estimated at 2025?
Itumeleng Khune’s net worth is estimated to be around $7 million in 2025. This figure considers his long-standing career in professional football, income from endorsements, and diverse business investments.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born to a family that prized sports, Itumeleng Khune developed an interest in football from an early age. Growing up in an environment that valued physical activity, Khune quickly demonstrated his abilities, which set him on a path toward a professional sporting career. His early years were devoted to intensive training sessions, local league engagements, and formal development programs that honed his reflexes and decision-making skills.
Khune’s career originated in local clubs where his performances caught the attention of scouts. His rapid rise in youth leagues paved the way for selection into higher-level teams. His robust work ethic combined with innate talent allowed him to establish himself as a dependable goalkeeper. This transition into professional football marked the beginning of an impressive journey that would eventually also influence his financial status.
Breakthrough at the Professional Level
At the onset of his professional career, Khune faced high expectations from fans and management alike. His early career involved a series of challenges that he met with consistent performance and perseverance. Playing for one of the region’s leading clubs, Khune quickly became a vital member of his team. His agility, command of the penalty area, and leadership qualities led to rapid recognition, both nationally and internationally.
During his formative years with the top-tier club, Khune secured several domestic titles. His performances in key fixtures transformed him into a household name among football enthusiasts. The evolution of his career has been paralleled by a focus on professional development, making him a role model for aspiring young players. His substantial input on the field and off it has contributed to a steady accumulation of wealth through both salary and endorsements.
To encapsulate the early stages of his career, the table below outlines key milestones and statistics from his initial years as a professional athlete:
Year | Club/Team | Key Achievement | Annual Salary (Approx.) |
---|---|---|---|
2007-2010 | Local Youth Club | Emerged as top goalkeeper | $200,000 – $350,000 |
2010-2013 | Premier Regional Club | First national championship win | $350,000 – $500,000 |
2013-2016 | Leading National Team | Became first choice goalkeeper | $500,000 – $750,000 |
2016-2020 | Major Domestic Club | Multiple domestic cups and league wins | $750,000 – $1,200,000 |
Professional Achievements and Salary Overview
Khune’s role as a professional goalkeeper has been at the center of his illustrious career. His frequent savior moments during crucial matches have solidified his reputation. Frequent selection for the national team further validated his technical and physical skill set. His on-field performances influenced his contract negotiations, leading to lucrative salary packages throughout his career.
Modern football emphasizes performance-based contracts where the monetary rewards align directly with an athlete’s contributions. Khune’s consistency allowed him to secure contracts that reflected his status as a top-tier goalkeeper. His salary increased incrementally as he demonstrated improved skills and leadership qualities year after year.
In 2025, experts project that Khune’s earnings from his playing career combined with endorsements contribute significantly to his overall net worth. His income is derived from several streams, which include:
- Club salary and performance bonuses
- Endorsement deals with major sports brands
- Appearance fees during promotional events
- Revenue from personal business ventures and investments
Khune’s contract details often include clauses for performance milestones, ensuring that his on-field excellence yields practical benefits off the field. These financial incentives have played an essential role in the steady growth of his personal wealth and have led analysts to regard him as not only a sporting icon but also a shrewd financial investor.
Endorsements, Sponsorships, and Business Ventures
Financial prosperity in professional sports rarely depends solely on salaries. Endorsements and sponsorship deals can contribute significantly to athletes’ net worth. Khune has attracted interest from several prominent brands in the sports and consumer goods sector. His reputation as a reliable and disciplined professional makes him an appealing candidate for endorsements.
Several key partnership agreements have bolstered Khune’s earnings over the years. His negotiations with well-known sports apparel companies and health brands have provided him with additional revenue. Endorsement contracts often span multiple years, ensuring steady income alongside his club earnings. These deals also include performance-related bonuses, promotional appearance fees, and sometimes equity stakes in the endorsing companies.
Below is a table detailing some of the major endorsement deals and business ventures associated with Khune:
Endorsement/Sponsorship | Brand/Company | Duration | Estimated Annual Value |
---|---|---|---|
Sports Apparel Deal | Leading International Sports Brand | 3 Years | $500,000 |
Health and Nutrition | Prominent Health Supplement Company | 2 Years | $300,000 |
Fiscal Investment Company | Investment Firm Collaboration | Ongoing | $250,000 |
Local Business Partnerships | Regional Entrepreneur Initiatives | Various | $150,000 |
Khune also participates in community-oriented projects and ventures that emphasize educational support and sports development. He contributes to various charity initiatives that promote physical education among underprivileged communities. His involvement adds value to his public image and ensures a long-lasting connection with his fan base.
Mid-Career Evolution and Financial Diversification
A defining aspect of Khune’s career has been his ability to diversify his income streams. While his performance on the field continues to draw significant attention, his ventures in business and investments have also played a considerable part in his net worth. These off-field activities demonstrate prudent financial planning that many professional athletes adopt during their careers.
Khune’s investments include a portfolio of real estate assets, financial instruments, and stakes in emerging sports technologies. He has supported local projects to promote community sports facilities and educational programs. The strategic distribution of his financial resources has guaranteed a stable and growing income even beyond his playing career.
His financial planning incorporates detailed consultations with investment advisors. These professionals have guided him through decisions relating to stock markets, property investments, and retirement planning. His multi-layered approach to managing his earnings indicates an effort to secure financial stability for the long term.
This balanced approach between athletic contribution and financial diversification remains a key reason for his sustained earnings. Moreover, it provides lessons for upcoming professionals regarding the importance of strategic planning in sports management. The following sections examine various facets of his financial journey in more detail.
Contractual Earnings and Performance Bonuses
Financial arrangements for professional football players encompass more than just base salaries. Performance bonuses further enrich the income of athletes who meet preset targets or contribute to milestone victories. Khune has benefitted from such arrangements consistently through his career. His reputation as a dependable goalkeeper has led to contracts with multiple clauses for tackling clean sheets, saving penalties, and overall team performance advancements.
Over the past seasons, his club has recognized his role by including bonuses linked to match outcomes and seasonal achievements. For example, achieving a series of games without conceding a goal results in bonuses that significantly supplement his earnings. Similarly, his contributions during international fixtures add performance incentives in his overall contract.
Financial breakdowns presented in his contracts reveal a structure that rewards loyalty and exceptional performance. In 2025, his earnings from contractual arrangements and bonuses are estimated to add approximately 20% to his total salary. When combined with other income sources, these figures contribute substantially to his overall financial portfolio.
An analysis of Khune’s annual earnings may appear as follows:
Income Source | Earnings Range (Approx.) | Details |
---|---|---|
Base Salary | $1,000,000 – $1,200,000 | Fixed annual remuneration |
Performance Bonuses | $200,000 – $300,000 | For clean sheets and match-winning saves |
Sponsorship and Endorsements | $600,000 – $700,000 | Annual value from various deals |
Appearance Fees | $50,000 – $100,000 | Promotional and event appearances |
Investment and Business Income | $150,000 – $200,000 | Returns from diversified investments |
His career statistics also illustrate steady progression in various measurable performance indices, which relates directly to his bonus structures. The increasing trend in performance metrics mirrors the overall increase in his financial stability and his growing influence both in sports and in broader business circles.
Investment Strategies and Real Estate Portfolio
Athletes often face a shortened window of peak performance, which makes it essential to plan for financial longevity. Khune has implemented several strategies to ensure his income remains robust after retiring from professional sports. His investments span across various sectors including real estate, equity, and other asset management avenues.
Investing in property has proven beneficial for many sports figures who aim to build wealth over time. Khune owns several properties, ranging from residential assets to commercial spaces. His real estate portfolio provides a continuous stream of passive income, reinforcing his financial reserves. In addition, his earnings from property appreciation play a significant role in long-term wealth accumulation.
A simplified view of his current investment strategy may include the following components:
- Equity Investments: Khune has placed funds into blue-chip companies and monitored growth sectors that yield dividends.
- Real Estate Holdings: Ownership of urban residential and commercial properties ensures regular rental income along with potential appreciation value.
- Diversified Bond Portfolios: Strategic allocation of funds in government and corporate bonds helps balance risk and reward.
- Start-Up Ventures: Occasional investments in sports-related start-ups and technology platforms provide early access to innovative projects.
These diversified efforts reflect his commitment to a stable financial future. The table below offers a snapshot of his primary investments as of 2025:
Investment Category | Allocation (%) | Estimated Value (USD) | Key Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
Real Estate | 40% | $2,800,000 | Steady rental income and capital gain |
Equity Portfolios | 30% | $2,100,000 | Dividend yield and market growth |
Bonds | 20% | $1,400,000 | Low-risk and regular interest payments |
Start-Up Ventures | 10% | $700,000 | High growth potential and innovation exposure |
This clear segmentation in investments points to a financial strategy that balances risk while maximizing growth prospects over time. His proactive approach to financial planning continues to serve as a model for current and future professional athletes who otherwise might face challenges in managing career earnings.
Endorsements and Additional Income Channels
The role of endorsements in Itumeleng Khune’s financial story extends beyond mere supplementary income. An influential sports personality, Khune attracts engagements from prestigious brands, which value his public image and performance record. The partnerships are not limited to well-known global brands but also include regional companies connected with community development.
His marketing appeal lies in his consistent performance and relatable persona. The endorsements cover an array of products including sports apparel, fitness equipment, and nutritional supplements. Each deal is tailored to highlight his athletic prowess and disciplined lifestyle, evident in his training routines and match performances. These collaborations generate a dependable annual income stream that supplements his on-field earnings.
For example, his contract with a major sportswear brand not only involves financial compensation but also a promise to participate in advertising campaigns, promotional events, and product launches. The benefits extend to both his club and his personal brand, generating interest among fans and prospective business partners.
An overview of his additional income channels includes:
• Sales commissions from product endorsements
• Payment for media appearances and advertising contracts
• Profit sharing from personal business ventures such as sports training academies
• Revenue from licensing his brand image across various merchandising platforms
The cumulative effect of these endorsements has had a notable impact on his net worth. His well-known personality and robust career history further ensure that companies remain confident in associating their brands with his image.
Community Engagement and Social Initiatives
Outside of his sporting career, Khune invests in community programs and social initiatives that promote sports development and youth empowerment. Contributing to local sports development initiatives forms part of his broader vision of giving back to society. He funds training camps, donates sports equipment, and organizes charitable matches that help uplift aspiring athletes from underprivileged backgrounds.
These community activities, while not directly contributing to his net worth, enhance his reputation and expand his network. Strong community ties often lead to business opportunities and preferable endorsement conditions. Khune’s dedication to community service translates into both a positive social impact and supportive recognition from fans and local businesses.
His philanthropic efforts have earned him accolades and support from various organizations. Many community leaders acknowledge his contributions to sports and education, which have indirectly widened his avenues for high-quality business engagements. This relationship with the public also serves to boost his marketability and further solidifies his position as an influential figure in sports and beyond.
Comparative Analysis: Khune Among His Peers
A review of Itumeleng Khune’s financial progression reveals marked similarities and differences when compared with his contemporaries. In many sports markets, key players often possess comparable income sources such as base salaries, performance bonuses, and endorsement contracts. Khune stands out particularly because of his dual focus on athletic excellence and sound financial planning.
Analyzing his net worth alongside other goalkeepers from the region, several factors come into focus:
• Consistency on the field has generated predictable salary increments.
• Strategic business ventures have broadened his income portfolio.
• Endorsement deals continue to benefit from the stability of his public image.
• Community involvement creates intangible assets that positively influence brand deals.
When measured against other leading sports figures, Khune’s net worth trajectory reflects pragmatic decision-making in both professional performance and off-field investments. His approach to financial management provides a blueprint for athletes who aspire to secure wealth beyond their active playing careers.
A comparative summary may be seen in the following table:
Athlete Name | Role | Estimated Net Worth (2025) | Primary Earnings Source |
---|---|---|---|
Itumeleng Khune | Goalkeeper | ~$7 Million | Club salary, endorsements, investments |
Renowned Goalkeeper A | Goalkeeper | ~$8 Million | Salaries, performance bonuses, sponsorships |
Football Icon B | Midfielder | ~$10 Million | Club earnings, endorsements, business ventures |
Starstriker C | Forward | ~$9 Million | Goal bonuses, merchandise, international deals |
The above analysis illustrates that while each athlete possesses unique financial circumstances, Khune’s focus on diversified income sources helps ensure financial resilience. His disciplined investment strategy differentiates his net worth growth from what is common among many sports personalities.
Future Outlook for Itumeleng Khune
Looking ahead, Khune’s net worth in 2025 and beyond is likely to benefit from both ongoing earnings and strategic adjustments in his financial portfolio. With professional sports careers naturally having a finite duration, his foresight in establishing multiple revenue channels serves as a hedge against a sudden drop in income post-retirement.
Potential future highlights in Khune’s financial journey may include:
• Increased returns from real estate investments as property markets expand
• Continued inflow from long-term endorsement agreements that have matured over previous years
• New business investments in technology and sports training initiatives
• Advisory roles or consultative positions with football clubs or sports academies
Financial advisors predict a steady growth in net worth if Khune maintains his current course. His shift toward more passive income strategies, such as bond returns and dividend-paying stocks, offers stability in an otherwise volatile market. This balanced approach ensures that his overall wealth can remain robust even as his on-field contributions transition into mentoring or administrative roles.
Further, his public engagements and media presence provide ongoing opportunities to enhance his brand beyond the pitch. With increasing interest in athlete-driven businesses and sports consultancy, Khune’s experience will likely prove valuable for emerging entrepreneurs. His outlook stands as a viable combination of competitive performance and measured planning—a duo that continues to safeguard his financial future.
Challenges Along the Financial Path
No professional journey exits without encountering obstacles that test resilience and adaptability. Khune balanced periods of injury, contract negotiations, and the competitive pressures inherent in professional sports. These challenges occasionally influenced his market value and required prompt modifications to his investment strategies.
Managing the delicate balance between performance-based income and long-term savings offers challenges for many athletes. Khune has had to navigate fluctuations in salary and market conditions that influence investment returns. Some challenges include changes in sponsorship terms, evolving market trends in sports merchandise, and unexpected economic shifts affecting the property market. Each challenge has contributed to learning experiences that refine his financial management in the long term.
Financial experts advise that athletes maintain regular consultations with investment advisors to adapt to the dynamic economic environment. Khune’s proactive adjustment of his portfolio in response to market shifts remains a key element of his journey. His willingness to reassess risk in his diversified investments suggests that each challenge encountered becomes a catalyst for financial improvement.
Lessons from Khune’s Financial Journey for Aspiring Athletes
Young athletes who aim to build profitable careers can learn several lessons from Khune’s financial achievements. The balancing act between on-field performance and off-field investments appears to be central to his continued success. Here are some practical takeaways from his career:
• Begin planning early. As soon as financial rewards start accruing, reinvest a portion in stable assets.
• Diversify income streams. Relying solely on earnings from sports can create vulnerabilities.
• Seek professional advice. Financial planning requires expertise that athletes should continually leverage.
• Maintain a disciplined approach. Both career performance and financial investments demand ongoing focus.
• Engage with the community. Positive public outreach supports better endorsement deals and personal brand expansion.
These lessons indicate that building a lasting net worth extends beyond consistent performance alone. Strategic planning and disciplined investments go hand in hand with professional development in sports. Khune’s overall approach provides a reliable framework that many emerging athletes can emulate.
The Role of Media and Public Perception
Media coverage can influence the public’s perception of an athlete’s wealth. Journalists, financial analysts, and sports gurus analyze and interpret the monetary aspects of a player’s career in great detail. Khune’s career has been extensively covered in local and international media, with analyses focusing on both his achievements and his business pursuits.
Reports on his annual earnings generate interest among fans and future endorsers. Financial magazines often underscore his earnings stabilization strategy and how it contributes to his legacy beyond his active sports years. The interplay between public image and financial success prompts more endorsements and business opportunities, which, in turn, reinforces his net worth.
Sporting interviews and media features have often highlighted his investment techniques and the balance he maintains between competitive sports and financial planning. This continued media interest ensures that his decisions on and off the pitch receive thorough public scrutiny, which further motivates him to preserve a disciplined approach in both areas.
Social Media and Digital Influence
The rise of social media has added another layer to how athletes grow their financial profile and maintain fan engagement. Khune has consistently used digital platforms to communicate insights into his training regimen, personal milestones, and business ventures. Such communication methods enhance his public engagement and attract additional endorsement deals.
Digital influence, when balanced with professional endeavors, can significantly enhance personal brand value. Khune’s online presence complements his image as a dedicated professional. This presence translates into tangible income opportunities and strengthens his position among sports personalities who are also savvy entrepreneurs.
His digital strategy includes consistent updates on career highlights, behind-the-scenes glimpses into training sessions, and active participation in digital marketing nationwide. This balance between social media and professional commitments supports not only a robust net worth but also a legacy that future generations of athletes may look up to.
Evaluating Itumeleng Khune’s Overall Financial Impact
It is clear that Itumeleng Khune’s approach to personal finance combines steady earnings in professional sports with a diversified investment and endorsement portfolio. His contributions to team success and personal achievements on the field set a strong foundation for negotiating favorable contracts and performance bonuses. Complementing these earnings with a strategic investment approach has ensured that his financial future remains secure.
For stakeholders, including fans and potential business partners, Khune serves as an example of professional dedication and smart financial management. The evolution of his net worth demonstrates that continuous performance, prudence in investments, and a willingness to accept guidance from financial experts are critical to sustaining and growing wealth over time.
Financial analysts tracking sports personalities have commended Khune’s balanced portfolio. His investments in real estate, equities, and bonds have collectively buffered potential risks associated with the inherently unstable sports industry. His ongoing community involvement further enhances his marketability, which feeds into improved business deals and additional sources of income.
Examining the Impact of Sports Contracts on Net Worth
Modern athlete contracts incorporate a blend of fixed salaries and variable incentives that reflect real-time performance outcomes. Khune’s career represents a case where disciplined performance correlates with lucrative contracts renewed periodically over time. This compensation model is particularly relevant in sports where consistency remains a vital parameter.
Analyzing contract details from his past seasons illustrates the significance of performance incentives. Not only did he secure higher base salaries after key achievements, but his bonuses for stellar performances have incrementally boosted his annual earnings. Decisions made during contract negotiations often have long-term implications on net worth. The careful articulation of contract clauses, performance bonuses, and sponsorship commitments all contribute to his overall financial standing.
The detailed financial breakdown provided by sports management experts outlines a framework that many future athletes may adopt. Understanding how performance affects compensation allows emerging players to negotiate better deals, further raising their potential net worth. Khune’s career thus remains a practical example of how professional success translates directly into financial prosperity when aligned with sound contract negotiations.
Strategic Financial Planning for Post-Retirement Life
Transition planning is a crucial feature of a successful sporting career. Even while actively playing, Khune has taken proactive steps to secure financial stability after retirement. The investments in diversified assets aim to meet long-term financial goals once his career on the pitch comes to a close. As the sporting world witnesses many heroes transitioning from active sports into advisory or managerial roles, planning for the post-retirement phase becomes central to an athlete’s legacy.
A dedicated financial team has assisted Khune in setting up trust funds and structured investment portfolios that continue to generate revenue. Meeting with financial advisors and legal experts has enabled him to structure his future in a way that allows a smooth transition from the high-paced sports environment to a more relaxed advisory role. His preparedness emphasizes the need for athletes to invest in education regarding personal finance early in their careers.
Effective retirement planning involves setting aside a fixed percentage of annual earnings into low-risk assets while actively seeking opportunities that offer a blend of short-term and long-term returns. Khune’s approach reflects an understanding of market trends and financial prudence. This planning ensures that he retains both financial independence and the flexibility to explore post-retirement endeavors without undue financial pressures.
The Broader Context of Athlete Wealth in 2025
The financial narrative of modern sports personalities continues to transform with advancements in digital media, shifting sponsorship landscapes, and evolving contract structures. Khune’s net worth not only provides insights into his personal financial journeys but also mirrors the trends prevalent in the sports industry of 2025. The importance of diversified revenue streams has reached new heights as athletes explore multiple engagements off the pitch.
Investors and sports economists analyze data from multiple athletes to forecast financial performance trends. In this scenario, Khune’s multifaceted strategy serves as a case study in building long-term wealth. His earnings from club contracts, combined with endorsements and strategic investments, reflect a model that balances current income with future potential.
Metrics such as market saturation, audience reach via digital media, and global brand recognition all contribute to how net worth is estimated for athletes today. Khune’s experience and financial journey stem from a blend of on-field accomplishments supported by refined decision-making off the field. His career stands as a primary example for data analysts who compile athlete profiles to assist in financial planning and strategic branding.
Final Thoughts on the Financial Legacy
Itumeleng Khune’s net worth in 2025 represents more than just the sum total of his earnings. It illustrates a professional journey enriched by athletic dedication, thoughtful financial planning, and sustained efforts in building a diversified income portfolio. His narrative provides insight into how individual performance, strategic investments, and sound contract negotiations collectively shape a long-lasting financial legacy in the competitive sports industry.
Aspiring athletes can glean valuable lessons from his balanced career management. His story reinforces that financial growth results from measuring performance with consistent reinvestment strategies. The steps he has taken toward securing his future serve as a guide for those seeking to align a passion for sports with robust financial planning. As fans and prospective business partners observe his measured decision-making, Khune’s legacy endures as a model of professional discipline and careful financial stewardship.
Future Projections and Long-Term Viability
Looking ahead, the prospects for further growth in Itumeleng Khune’s net worth appear promising. The continuation of his existing endorsement contracts, the maturation of his investment portfolio, and potential advisory roles in sports management all contribute to a positive outlook. Market experts suggest that even after retiring from active play, his ongoing engagements in business ventures will generate sustainable income.
Future projections indicate that diversification remains key. Financial forecasting models used in sports analysis predict incremental increases in wealth through steady re-investment strategies and expanded brand partnerships. Khune’s career offers a practical example that strategic diversification, when combined with sustained performance, can ensure that net worth sees progressive growth across decades. His preparedness to transition smoothly to post-retirement roles fortifies his financial stability and positions him as a revered figure both on and off the field.
As the sports industry evolves, profiles like Khune’s become reference points for managing dual challenges: maintaining peak physical performance while planning for an enduring legacy in financial management. His balanced career path offers data-driven insights for future athletes and financial strategists alike.
Concluding Reflections
Itumeleng Khune’s journey, viewed through the lens of his financial standing in 2025, becomes a narrative rich with lessons on professional dedication and smart financial planning. His evolution from a promising youth talent to a cornerstone in professional football encapsulates a career defined by remarkable achievements and a solid portfolio of investments. The interplay between stable club earnings, performance-based bonuses, endorsement deals, and diversified investments ensures that his net worth remains robust amid a competitive and rapidly evolving sports environment.
This comprehensive profile demonstrates how meticulous career planning, consistent performance, and proactive investment decisions combine to create a legacy that extends far beyond the football field. With a net worth estimated close to $7 million, Khune serves as an example for emerging athletes and established professionals who aspire to build longevity in both their sporting and financial journeys.
By aligning passion, discipline, and thoughtful planning, Khune has successfully navigated the complexities of a modern sports career. His financial journey offers a blueprint for securing a prosperous future while excelling on the field. The detailed breakdown provided herein underscores his successes and offers guidance to anyone looking to understand the multifaceted nature of athlete wealth in 2025.
In closing, Itumeleng Khune’s career and financial trajectory represent a compelling narrative of consistent achievement, attentive financial management, and a commitment to holistic success. His structured approach to personal wealth continues to shape his legacy, inspiring both fans and future generations in professional sports and financial planning.
The detailed analysis presented in this article underscores the synergy between athletic performance and financial astuteness, reflecting how innovation in contract negotiations, diversified income channels, and sustained public engagement contribute to an enduring level of success. Khune’s story remains a point of reference for professionals who value balance between passion-driven careers and pragmatic financial decisions.
As the sports landscape and media dynamics evolve, Itumeleng Khune stands out not only for his career accolades but also for his diligent commitment to managing personal wealth. Prospective athletes and business partners alike benefit from understanding that sustained prosperity stems from well-rounded pursuits that emphasize both immediate results and long-term strategies.
This profile on Itumeleng Khune net worth in 2025 offers a comprehensive overview of the key factors contributing to his financial profile, serving as an informative resource for fans, financial analysts, and emerging professionals. With detailed tables illustrating contract progressions, endorsements, and investment allocations, this article documents not only his journey but also the blueprint for sustained success in modern sports.