The Liverpool FC star footballer, Virgil van Dijk has invested in Whoop, a company that makes fitness wearable watches. Along with investing, the Dutch player also becomes the brand’s global ambassador.
Van Dijk already uses Whoop to track his sleep, recovery, and training to enhance his effectiveness. The 27-year-old Dutch defender attributes his rehabilitation from an ACL injury in 2021 to the wearable technology.
van Dijk, who will play for the Netherlands in the forthcoming FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, will provide an input on product innovation and depth of understanding into how it can help athletes.
The Netherlands skipper and Liverpool FC center-back enters Whoop’s lineup of representatives and ambassadors, which involves sports stars Rory McIlroy, Michael Phelps, Anthony Watson, and Beth Mead.
On the partnership, Virgil van Dijk, said, “As a longtime Whoop member, this partnership makes perfect sense for me; every percentage of improvement that you can make ultimately benefits you, and Whoop is a tool that helps me take control of my health and be successful. Football seasons are always long, particularly in a World Cup year, so recovery will be even more crucial than ever.
“Working with Whoop will be a huge asset in helping me ensure that I’m doing the right things to set me up to perform.”
Will Ahmed, Founder and Chief Executive of Whoop, commented, “Van Dijk has been a longtime Whoop member, and we’re thrilled to work with him more directly as he joins our company as an investor. We’re looking forward to Virgil supporting the future direction of our product especially as we grow internationally.”