Sports Highrollers: Top 10 Richest Athletes in the World
It’s no secret that athletes can pull in a pretty hefty paycheck. Many started as world-known athletes who retired to the entrepreneurial side, while others have gained their fortunes from being true celebrity athletes. Learn more about the world’s richest athletes, their net worth, and how they got there. Read on to also find where you can bet on their sports. Who knows, maybe your bet will get you just as rich!
Who are the Richest Athletes?
Michael Jordan | $3.75 billion | Basketball
Michael Jordan, widely considered the greatest athlete of all time, leads this list with $3.75 billion. Known for his incredible basketball skills and global appeal, Jordan’s influence extends far beyond the court. His iconic status has inspired generations, with countless kids donning Chicago Bulls jerseys and aspiring to “be like Mike.” Jordan’s wealth comes from his NBA career, lucrative endorsements, and the enduring success of his Jordan Brand.
Tiger Woods | $2.66 Billion | Golf
In his early years, Tiger Woods looked like he would blow the top off this list. It appeared that he was going to own every major golf record. Plus, with the longevity of playing in this sport, the title of richest athlete looked to be within his grasp. Unfortunately, injuries have hurt Tiger’s chances of being in the top spot and becoming the greatest golfer of all time. That doesn’t mean he hasn’t made a pretty penny during his career.
Cristiano Ronaldo | $1.92 Billion | Soccer
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most recognizable athletes globally alongside Michael Jordan and LeBron James, has amassed $1.92 billion. Renowned for his exceptional soccer skills, Ronaldo’s career includes dominant performances with Real Madrid. Beyond his on-field success, Ronaldo’s wealth is bolstered by lucrative endorsements and a strong personal brand, making him one of the highest-earning athletes.
Arnold Palmer | $1.76 Billion | Golf
Arnold Palmer, known as “The King,” amassed $1.76 billion not only from his legendary golf career but also through pioneering sports marketing and business ventures. His earnings include lucrative endorsements, co-founding The Golf Channel, and creating the iconic “Arnold Palmer” drink. Palmer’s financial legacy remains one of the most impressive in sports history.
LeBron James | $1.7 Billion | Basketball
LeBron James, currently the best basketball player in the world, has amassed $1.7 billion. Now in his 21st year in the NBA, his longevity and sustained excellence are unmatched. LeBron’s wealth comes not only from his remarkable on-court achievements but also from lucrative endorsements and business ventures. His continued dominance and influence in the sport make him one of the most successful and enduring athletes.
Jack Nicklaus | $1.67 Billion | Golf
Jack Nicklaus, with a fortune of $1.67 billion, is another prominent golfer on this list. Often overlooked, Nicklaus’s wealth, adjusted for inflation, places him among the richest athletes. Known as the “Golden Bear,” his success isn’t just from his legendary golf career but also from designing golf courses, endorsements, and business ventures. Nicklaus’s financial achievements highlight the lucrative potential of a career in golf.
Lionel Messi | $1.67 Billion | Soccer
Lionel Messi is a giant in the soccer world with a net worth of $1.67 billion. Renowned as the greatest soccer player of all time, Messi’s success on the field has earned him countless accolades and a massive fortune. His wealth comes from a combination of record-breaking contracts, endorsements, and a global fanbase, making him one of the richest athletes in the world.
David Beckham | $1.5 Billion | Soccer
David Beckham, with a net worth of $1.5 billion, was the original soccer heartthrob, known for his exceptional skills and charisma. More than just a pretty face, Beckham was a dominant striker and one of the most marketable athletes. His wealth comes from a successful soccer career, lucrative endorsements, and ventures beyond the sport, leading to him being one of the most successful soccer players.
Roger Federer | $1.49 Billion | Tennis
Roger Federer has earned a net worth of $1.49 billion, bringing diversity to this list as a tennis player. While tennis players often have less visibility compared to athletes in other sports, Federer’s dominance and success were unparalleled. For over a decade, he was virtually unstoppable, becoming one of the greatest athletes in tennis history. His wealth comes from prize money, endorsements, and his strong personal brand.
Floyd Mayweather | $1.48 Billion | Boxing
Floyd Mayweather, known as “Money,” earned his $1.48 billion fortune by being unbeatable in the ring and unapologetically flaunting his wealth. His undefeated record and unmatched skill made him one of the highest-paid athletes in history. Mayweather’s earnings come from lucrative fight purses, endorsements, and his savvy business ventures, securing his place among the top 10 richest athletes in the world.
Winning Your Own Money with Sports Betting
Now that you know the top 10 richest athletes in the world, why not set your sights on making some money too? Many of these athletes have earned their money through their sport, and even if you don’t have athletic talent, you can too. How? By placing some bets! You can bet on basketball in honor of Michael Jordan and LeBron James, fighting for Floyd Mayweather, tennis for Roger Federer, golf for Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer, and soccer for Christiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and David Beckham. Though the payouts will be a little lower than their salaries, you can still increase your own net worth by betting on sports.
The best sport to place your bets is Circa Sports Sportsbook in Las Vegas. You can also stop by the D or one of the other Circa Sports locations in Las Vegas to place your bets in person. Can’t make it into the sportsbook? Download the Circa Sports app on iOS or Android to have your bookie right in your pocket.
Whether in person or on the app, join Circa Sports for your premier place to bet on sports in Vegas.
