LATEST REPORT: Edmonton Oilers’ Mattias Ekholm Secures Groundbreaking $10M Endorsement Deal with SAMSUNG — Donates $4M to Global Youth and Orphan Charities
EDMONTON, ALBERTA — In a landmark moment both on and off the ice, Mattias Ekholm, the rock-solid defenseman of the Edmonton Oilers, has secured a groundbreaking $10 million endorsement deal with global tech giant Samsung. But it’s not just the deal that’s making headlines — it’s what he’s doing with it.
In a remarkable and heartwarming show of generosity, Ekholm has pledged $2 million to the Boys and Girls Club of Edmonton and another $2 million to a global orphanage foundation, stating that giving back is “not just a choice, but a responsibility.”
> “I’ve been fortunate in my life and career,” Ekholm said in a statement. “Now it’s time to use that fortune to open doors for kids who might not otherwise have a chance.”
The announcement has quickly gone viral across the sports world, tech circles, and philanthropic networks, as Ekholm becomes one of the first NHL defensemen to land such a major global brand partnership outside of North America.
The collaboration with Samsung will see Ekholm feature in international campaigns across digital, television, and virtual platforms, promoting Samsung’s newest line of AI-powered athletic tech and wearable devices. Sources close to the deal say Samsung was drawn not only to Ekholm’s defensive dominance and international appeal, but also to his “authentic leadership, humility, and global vision.”
> “Mattias Ekholm isn’t just a hockey player,” said Jin-Seok Park, Samsung’s Global Sports Marketing Director. “He’s an icon of strength, integrity, and global citizenship. We’re honored to have him as the face of our next-generation products.”
Ekholm, originally from Borlänge, Sweden, has long championed youth development and community outreach. His decision to fund the Boys and Girls Club of Edmonton stems from his years playing in the AHL and NHL, where he worked closely with child development programs. His second donation — a generous $2 million pledge to orphanage centers worldwide — is inspired by stories from fans and families he’s met throughout his career.
> “It’s about giving hope where it’s needed most,” Ekholm said. “Hockey has given me everything — now it’s my turn to give back.”
On the ice, Ekholm continues to be a cornerstone for the Edmonton Oilers, bringing experience, defensive depth, and veteran leadership. Off the ice, his legacy is now expanding far beyond the rink.
Teammates, fans, and members of the global hockey community have praised the Oilers’ star for setting a new standard of success — not just measured in dollars or points, but in impact.
> “This is what greatness looks like,” said Oilers captain Connor McDavid. “Matty’s always been a leader. Now the world gets to see it in action.”
With this powerful blend of sports, technology, and philanthropy, Mattias Ekholm isn’t just building his brand — he’s building a better future.