Zygmunt “Zygi” Wilf (born April 22, 1950) is an American billionaire businessman and real estate developer. He is the chairman and co-owner of the NFL’s Minnesota Vikings and the majority owner of Major League Soccer’s Orlando City SC.
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Table of Contents
Zygi Wilf Net Worth
Zygi Wilf has a net worth of $1.3 billion. Born in Germany in 1950 as Zygmunt Wilf, he has been a prominent figure in American football ownership. For several years, Wilf and the Minnesota Vikings stated that their former home, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, was inadequate and lobbied for a new stadium.
In May 2012, the team moved closer to a $975 million stadium plan after the state senate approved a proposal relying on public financing. Later that month, the deal was signed by Governor Mark Dayton and approved by the Minneapolis City Council. The U.S. Bank Stadium opened in July 2016 on the site of the former Metrodome.
Early Life
Zygi Wilf was born in West Berlin on April 22, 1950. His parents, Joseph Wilf (1925–2016) and Elizabeth Wilf (1932–), were Polish Jews and Holocaust survivors from Nazi-occupied Poland. The Wilf family immigrated to the United States in the early 1950s, settling in Hillside, New Jersey.
After a brief period as a used car salesman, Joseph Wilf and his brother Harry Wilf began purchasing apartment buildings and renting units, eventually building single-family homes and founding Garden Homes.
Career
After working as an attorney, Zygi Wilf joined the family business and became head of one of its affiliates, Garden Commercial Properties.
He expanded the company from four shopping centers in Northern New Jersey to over one hundred properties, including several large malls. In addition to commercial properties, the Garden companies also own and manage 90,000 apartment units across the United States.
Personal Life
In 2011, Zygi Wilf and Audrey Wilf purchased an apartment occupying the entire 18th floor of 778 Park Avenue, New York for $19 million, reduced from its original December 2009 asking price of $24.5 million, while still residing in their home in Springfield, New Jersey.
Who is the Owner of the Wilf NFL Team?
Zygi Wilf has been the principal owner and chairman of the Minnesota Vikings since 2005, steering the team through new stadium negotiations and enhancing its value and competitive standing in the league.
Conclusion
Zygi Wilf’s journey from real estate magnate to NFL team owner illustrates a remarkable story of financial acumen, strategic investment, and personal dedication. His legacy, built on the twin pillars of business success and sports leadership, continues to influence both industries profoundly.
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FAQs About Zygi Wilf
- What inspired Zygi Wilf to enter the real estate business? Wilf was inspired by his family’s initial success in real estate, leading him to transition from a legal career to join and eventually lead the family business.
- How has Zygi Wilf impacted the Minnesota Vikings? Under Wilf’s ownership, the Vikings have seen significant infrastructural developments, including the construction of a new stadium, and have remained competitive in the NFL.
- What are Zygi Wilf’s contributions to the community? Wilf is known for his philanthropic efforts, serving on the board of several organizations and contributing to causes related to education, healthcare, and the Jewish community.
- How does Zygi Wilf balance his business and personal life? Despite his extensive business commitments, Wilf maintains a private personal life, emphasizing family and philanthropic endeavors.
- What legacy does Zygi Wilf hope to leave? Wilf aims to leave a legacy of success, resilience, and community contribution, reflecting both his business achievements and his personal values.
