Stanley Cup champion Aleksander Barkov joins Palm Beach Royals as Major League Pickleball co-owner

Florida Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov is taking his sports career to a new arena, pickleball. Barkov has become a co-owner of the Palm Beach Royals, a Major League Pickleball (MLP) team set to debut in 2026.

Joining him are tennis star Bianca Andreescu, Indianapolis Colts pro bowler Kenny Moore II, and former NBA player Tyler Hansbrough. The team’s record-breaking $16 million valuation highlights the growing popularity and investment potential of professional pickleball.

Aleksander Barkov of Florida Panthers expands sports legacy with Palm Beach Royals Major League Pickleball ownership

The Palm Beach Royals will mark Barkov’s first venture into team ownership outside the NHL. The co-ownership group, led by Zach Hunter and Taylor Meyer, former NCAA tennis teammates, spoke with Sports Business Journal about the franchise’s success.

Meyer explained that MLP teams previously traded in the six-figure range, but valuations have skyrocketed to eight figures. “Fifteen million dollars was actually the initial target… we could raise up to $16 million if it did go oversubscribed. It sold out far quicker than we thought,” Meyer said.Barkov’s involvement brings star power to the franchise, blending high-profile athletes across sports. The addition of Andreescu, Moore II, and Hansbrough also emphasizes the team’s cross-sport appeal, giving fans and investors alike an exciting mix of talent and credibility.

NHL star Aleksander Barkov brings championship experience to Palm Beach Royals ownership

The Palm Beach Royals’ $16 million valuation sets a new high for an MLP expansion team. Since 2021, the sport has grown from small-scale investments to a booming professional league attracting global attention. MLP continues to expand rapidly, with new teams, higher ticket sales, and sponsorships reflecting the sport’s increasing mainstream appeal.For Barkov, this venture complements an already remarkable NHL career.

The Panthers captain has led Florida to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, won three Selke Trophies, and earned an estimated $74.18 million in career earnings according to PuckPedia. Moving into ownership allows him to diversify his sports portfolio while leveraging his reputation as a championship-winning athlete.Aleksander Barkov’s move into professional pickleball ownership demonstrates how elite athletes are branching out beyond their primary sport. By joining the Palm Beach Royals and partnering with other sports stars, Barkov not only cements his legacy in hockey but also positions himself at the forefront of a fast-growing professional sport, signaling big opportunities for fans and investors alike.Also Read: Nick Robertson’s Toronto Maple Leafs future uncertain after Craig Berube’s blunt roster message