After an illustrious 15-year career as a goalie for the New York Rangers, Henrik Lundqvist, alongside co-host and Bleeker COO/CFO Jay Liddell, has recently embarked on a new journey into the world of podcasting. Their podcast, “Club30 with Henrik Lundqvist”, is a testament to their enduring love for New York and its rich tapestry of inspiring individuals.
Lundqvist and Liddell, both long-time residents of New York, found solace in each other’s company during the pandemic, bonding over drinks and deep conversations, a ritual they fondly referred to as the “Tuesday Night Club”. It was from this intimate connection that the idea for the podcast was born, intended to encapsulate their love for the city and its people, while providing a platform for guests from all walks of life to share their unique New York experiences.
Embracing the Growth Mindset
Lundqvist, known for his passion and commitment on the ice rink, has carried these qualities into his podcasting career. Despite his initial lack of experience in the media industry, his key principles of mastering preparation and managing expectations have guided him throughout this transition. According to Lundqvist, “When you pivot in life and do something else, I think it comes down to expectations. You have to understand when starting something new, you can’t expect to dominate that or to master it — you just have to go in with a very open mind and try to learn and be open. It’s a process.” [source]
A Passion for Tennis and Healthy Competition
Beyond his endeavors in media, Lundqvist, a versatile sportsman, has recently expressed his intention to challenge retired Giants quarterback Eli Manning to a tennis match. His affinity for tennis, shared by Manning, was a prominent topic of discussion in the inaugural episode of “Club30”. This competitive spirit and love for sports reflect Lundqvist’s ceaseless drive, a trait that was a cornerstone of his successful hockey career.
The Sibling Rivalry
Lundqvist’s relationship with tennis goes beyond a friendly future match with Manning. He shares a deep and passionate rivalry with his identical twin, Joel, a former forward for the Dallas Stars. “I’ve smashed a lot of tennis rackets in my day playing my brother, but I would say I can beat him today,” Lundqvist humorously shared on his podcast.
A New Phase of Life
Retirement has also allowed Lundqvist to indulge in more personal pursuits, including spending time with his family and enjoying a return to skiing after a 20-year hiatus. His new flexible schedule allows for quality time with his wife, Therese, and their two daughters, as well as opportunities for travel and adventure. Yet, despite this change of pace, his diet remains the same – he still enjoys a good cheeseburger from his favorite spots in the city.
Still a Ranger at Heart
Despite retiring in 2021, Lundqvist continues to support the Rangers, particularly his successor, goalie Igor Shesterkin. Although he prefers to stay on the sidelines, he offers encouragement and expresses admiration for the team’s accomplishments. Lundqvist continues to be a part of the Rangers in a different capacity, working for MSG in broadcasting and as an ambassador on the business and entertainment side.
Final Thoughts
Lundqvist has indeed been on a unique journey from the hockey rink to podcasting and television. His resilience, adaptability, and undying passion for new challenges are quite inspirational. Beyond the hockey legend, Lundqvist is a family man, a philanthropist, and now an engaging media personality. His love for New York City is undeniable, and it remains a significant part of his identity.
The ultimate lesson Lundqvist imparts is the need to approach new endeavors with patience, preparation, and managed expectations. As he navigates his post-hockey life, it’s clear that he continues to bring his champion’s mindset to every aspect of his life.
In conclusion, the three-decade-long career of Henrik Lundqvist presents a classic tale of tenacity and perseverance. Despite his retirement from the hockey field, his current endeavors in the media industry and his love for other sports like tennis show that he continues to remain an integral part of the sports fraternity. His dedication to uplifting the lives of others through various philanthropic activities is a testament to his humility and generosity.
One thing is certain – regardless of where Lundqvist’s interests and talents lead him next, he will continue to be an influential figure within the New York City community and beyond, inspiring many with his life’s journey and wisdom.
