Nike's biggest Chinese challenger has landed in L.A. County - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Iris Kwok

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Nike’s biggest Chinese rival, Anta Sports, has made its U.S. debut with the opening of its first North American store in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County. This marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy as it aims to establish a stronger presence in the competitive U.S. market. Known for its affordable yet stylish sportswear, Anta is leveraging endorsements from high-profile athletes like Stephen Curry and Eileen Gu to boost its visibility. The brand’s minimalist bird logo and focus on running and lifestyle shoes are central to its appeal. Anta, already a $10 billion giant in China, has been rapidly expanding globally. In recent years, the company acquired German outdoor brand Jack Wolfskin for $290 million and secured a 29% stake in Puma, making it the largest shareholder. These moves highlight Anta’s ambition to compete with global giants like Nike and Adidas on a larger scale. The Beverly Hills store, which spans over 2,500 square feet, is designed as a community hub, offering events and programs that celebrate Chinese American heritage and sport culture. The store’s opening coincided with an event attended by Dallas Mavericks players Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson, both of whom have endorsement deals with Anta. Irving, now the brand’s chief creative officer, even launched his own line of basketball shoes, including a recent design for Chinese New Year. This reflects Anta’s strategy to blend cultural elements with its products, appealing not just to athletes but also to a broader audience. Anta’s expansion into the U.S. market aligns with its long-term goal of reaching 1,000 stores in Southeast Asia by June 2025 and establishing a presence in key markets like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kenya. This move is significant for readers interested in global business trends, as it underscores the growing influence of Chinese brands in international markets. Anta’s success could reshuffle the competitive landscape in the sportswear industry, particularly with its focus

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/24/2026