Caroline Garcia, the accomplished tennis player, has embarked on a new journey, trading the tennis courts for the hallowed halls of Harvard Business School. This unexpected move showcases her commitment to personal growth and her desire to explore the business world beyond the confines of her sport.

Unlocking a New Frontier: Caroline Garcia's Foray into the Business Realm

Recharging and Expanding Horizons

Feeling the weight of a grueling season, Caroline Garcia decided to take a well-deserved break, escaping to the idyllic island of Mauritius. There, she found solace in the tranquil beaches, boating excursions, and the captivating sights of dolphins and whales frolicking in the Indian Ocean. This respite not only rejuvenated her physically but also sparked a desire to explore new horizons.

Seizing the Opportunity: Harvard Business School Beckons

While the tennis world's elite gathered in Riyadh for the prestigious WTA Finals, Garcia made a bold decision. She received an email from the WTA outlining a unique opportunity – the chance to enroll in Harvard Business School's Crossover Intro Business program. Intrigued, she discussed the prospect with her fiancé, Borja Durán, an associate professor with expertise in e-commerce and marketing. Durán's encouragement, coupled with Garcia's growing interest in the business side of the sport, propelled her to seize this opportunity.

Embracing a New Challenge

For Garcia, the decision to pursue higher education at this stage of her career was a significant shift. "I always believed I was too busy with tennis to go to university," she admitted. However, the prospect of exploring a new environment and gaining fresh perspectives resonated with her. The podcast she co-hosts with Durán, "Tennis Insider Club," had already sparked her interest in the business aspects of the sport, and the Harvard program presented an opportunity to delve deeper.

Joining the Elite Crossover Program

Garcia is one of five Hologic WTA Tour players enrolled in the Harvard Business School's 2024-25 Crossover Intro Business program, alongside Aldila Sutjiadi, Angelina Gabueva, Fernanda Contreras, and Katarzyna Piter. This prestigious program, launched in partnership with the NBA in 2017, aims to provide professional athletes with a better understanding of the business side of their sport and equip them with the tools to leverage their success into life after competition.

Navigating the Crossover Experience

Garcia's Harvard experience has been a transformative one. She has been paired with two graduate student mentors, with whom she regularly meets online to review case studies of various sports businesses. One of the topics explored was TEAM8, the management company co-founded by agent Tony Godsick and tennis legend Roger Federer. These case studies have challenged Garcia to think critically and consider different perspectives.

Embracing a Multifaceted Future

As Garcia delves into the Harvard program, she recognizes the importance of expanding her horizons beyond the tennis bubble. "It's really important to go through this," she said, acknowledging the value of learning new skills and gaining confidence in her abilities beyond the court. The program has also provided her with insights into the financial aspects of her sport, something she wishes she had learned earlier in her career.

Leveraging the Crossover Experience

Garcia's Harvard experience has not only broadened her perspective but also equipped her with valuable tools for her future endeavors. The podcast she co-hosts with Durán has already benefited from the insights gained, as they explore questions about content strategy, brand partnerships, and long-term growth. As Garcia and Durán plan their wedding for next July, the future seems to hold a place for them in the business world, with the Harvard program serving as a springboard for their entrepreneurial aspirations.

A Transformative Journey

Caroline Garcia's decision to enroll in the Harvard Business School's Crossover Intro Business program represents a bold and transformative step in her career. By embracing this opportunity, she is not only investing in her future but also setting an example for other professional athletes who seek to expand their horizons beyond the confines of their sport. As Garcia navigates this new chapter, her journey serves as an inspiration, showcasing the power of lifelong learning and the pursuit of personal and professional growth.