This former U.S. soccer player built a $20 billion-a-year company. Now, he says resilience matters more than talent—and points to Lionel Messi as proof

Jim Kavanaugh, once a top U.S. soccer Olympian, has turned his competitive spirit into a thriving $20 billion-a-year enterprise, World Wide Technology. He attributes his success to resilience and mental toughness rather than raw talent, using his own career and that of soccer star Lionel Messi as examples. Kavanaugh’s insights underscore the importance of perseverance and mindset in achieving success, whether on the soccer field or in the business world. This perspective highlights the often-overlooked role of mental fortitude in driving long-term achievements.