Celebrating National Sports Day with Keerthy Suresh, Preity Zinta, and other actresses who turned Sports Entrepreneurs
Sports has been one of the most talked-about topics worldwide, whether it’s about the players, the teams, or the owners behind them. In India, we celebrate a wide range of sports — from cricket to kabaddi, pickleball, and more, each with passionate fans and growing recognition. Interestingly, several Indian actresses have taken on the role of team owners, demonstrating not only their keen interest in entrepreneurship but also their passion for sports. By backing some of the biggest teams across different games, they have become powerful forces in promoting sports culture. Their involvement not only inspires fans but also highlights how cinema icons are shaping the future of Indian sports. Today, as we celebrate National Sports Day, we look at these actresses turned entrepreneurs, owning and supporting teams
Preity Zinta – Punjab Kings
Preity Zinta stepped into the sporting arena in 2008, becoming the co-owner of Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) during the launch of the IPL. Investing around ₹35 crore, she secured her place in the world’s biggest cricket league. Known for her passionate support, Preity is one of the most dedicated owners, often present at nearly every match.
Juhi Chawla – Kolkata Knight Riders
Juhi Chawla, alongside her husband Jay Mehta and superstar Shah Rukh Khan, is the co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League, one of the world’s biggest cricket franchises. Since its inception, Juhi has been an integral part of the team’s journey, combining her star power with business acumen to support KKR’s success.
Keerthy Suresh – Trivandrum Royals
Keerthy Suresh, one of Indian cinema’s most admired actresses, is also a passionate sports lover. She co-owns the Trivandrum Royals, a cricket team that plays in the Kerala Cricket League (KCL). Sharing ownership with renowned filmmaker Priyadarshan, Keerthy showcases her commitment to promoting cricket in Kerala, blending her star appeal with genuine enthusiasm for the sport.
Kareena Kapoor Khan – Tigers of Kolkata
Kareena Kapoor Khan, aka Bebo, co-owns the Tigers of Kolkata in the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) with her husband, Saif Ali Khan. The duo introduced the team in 2024, and in a remarkable debut, the Tigers clinched victory in the league’s inaugural ISPL T10 championship.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu – Chennai Super Champs
Samantha Ruth Prabhu is the proud co-owner of the Chennai Super Champs in the World Pickleball League. Venturing into the rapidly rising sport, she brings her star power to the team while actively promoting pickleball in India. Her involvement highlights her passion for fitness, wellness, and supporting emerging sporting platforms.
Genelia Deshmukh – Pune United
Genelia has launched Pune United in the World Pickleball League (WPBL) with her husband Ritesh Deshmukh, aiming to boost the sport’s presence in India. Their move not only brings star power to pickleball but also highlights the growing sporting culture.