Fred Ridley Recognized as Top 125 Most Influential in Sports Business of the Past 25 Years by Sports Business Journal

Foley & Lardner LLP partner Fred Ridley is named to Sports Business Journal‘s Influence 125.

Sports Business Journal writes “Influence 125 is more than a list; it recognizes the trailblazers who have set the pace for change in sports business. From pioneering founders and high-stakes dealmakers to brand architects and media moguls, these 125 have reshaped the multibillion-dollar sports economy across every sector: sponsorship, tech, media, venues, events, agencies and leagues. Their impact has been undeniable, and their influence continues to shape the next frontier of leadership in sports.”

Other honorees include among others, Michael Jordan, Tiger Woods, Tom Brady, Mark Cuban, Gary Bettman, Roger Goodell, LeBron James, Phil Knight, Rupert Murdoch, Robert Kraft, Bud Selig, and Casey Wasserman.

“Fred Ridley took over as chairman of Augusta National Golf Club in the fall of 2017, and in those short eight years, he has enacted significant change down Magnolia Lane. Under Ridley’s watch, Augusta National has become the clear North Star of the major golf governing bodies and organizations. The club deftly has handled challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and has played it down the middle with LIV Golf. It also has become further ingrained in the Augusta community through initiatives such as its “Patch Project” to strengthen the local golf scene. The club introduced its Map & Flag hospitality offering in 2024 and will debut its new Players Services Building at the 2026 Masters.”