Richest Athletes in the World by Net Worth 2026

The richest athletes in the world by net worth are more than just sporting legends—they are global icons, entrepreneurs, and empire builders. As of 2026, the list reveals how sports stars have transformed their fame into long-lasting wealth through endorsements, business ventures, brand building, and investments. From the basketball court to the wrestling ring, from football pitches to racing circuits, the world’s top athletes are cashing in far beyond the game.

In today’s globalized sports economy, it’s not just about who plays the best—it’s about who brands the best. Athletes now own stakes in sports teams, entertainment companies, clothing brands, restaurants, and tech startups. The top earners often come from sports with high media exposure, like basketball, football (soccer), wrestling, and golf, particularly in North America and Europe. But rising stars from South America, Asia, and Oceania are also making waves. This article explores the top 10 and provides a detailed look at the top 50 richest athletes in the world today.

Top 10 Richest Athletes in the World by Net Worth 2026

1. Michael Jordan (United States) – $3.6 Billion
2. Vince McMahon (United States) – $3.2 Billion
3. Ion Țiriac (Romania) – $2.0 Billion
4. Junior Bridgeman (United States) – $1.5 Billion
5. Anna Kasprzak (Denmark) – $1.0 Billion
6. Lionel Messi (Argentina) – $850 Million
7. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) – $800 Million
8. LeBron James (United States) – $800 Million
9. Magic Johnson (United States) – $800 Million
10. Dwayne Johnson (United States) – $800 Million

At the top of the list stands Michael Jordan, whose fortune exploded thanks to his long-standing partnership with Nike’s Jordan Brand, investments in NBA franchises, and his stake in Jordan Capital Ventures. Right behind him is Vince McMahon, who redefined sports entertainment and built the WWE empire, recently merging with UFC to form a multi-billion-dollar business.

Surprises include Junior Bridgeman, a former NBA player who turned a modest basketball career into a restaurant empire. Anna Kasprzak, a Danish equestrian, stands out as the wealthiest female athlete on the list, inheriting wealth from her family’s ECCO shoe empire while also succeeding in dressage.

Football legends Messi and Ronaldo continue to earn through salaries and endorsements, while LeBron James, Magic Johnson, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson have diversified into media, fitness, and business investments—proving that success beyond sports is the real game changer.

Disclaimer: The net worth figures mentioned are based on publicly available data as of May 2026 and may vary due to investments, market conditions, and personal disclosures.

This list focuses on personal net worth, not annual earnings, and includes retired athletes who built wealth through business, endorsements, and investments.
Looking for athletes with the highest annual income? Check out our article: World’s Highest Paid Athletes

The extended Top 50 list shows that United States dominates the chart, especially in basketball, golf, and American football. Veterans like Shaquille O’Neal, Tiger Woods, and Tom Brady continue to benefit from sponsorships and smart post-retirement ventures.

Formula 1 racers like Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, and Michael Schumacher prove motorsports’ immense financial reach. In boxing, names like Floyd Mayweather, Canelo Álvarez, and Manny Pacquiao have monetized their fame through promotions and endorsements.

It’s also notable how athletes like Serena Williams, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic built global brand value alongside career success, showing the growing wealth potential in tennis.

The richest athletes in the world aren’t just winners on the field—they are investors, entertainers, and business moguls. As media influence and commercial reach grow, expect future athletes to cross the billion-dollar mark faster and earlier. These 50 legends prove that the business of sports is bigger than ever.

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Sources

• Forbes: World’s Richest Athletes
• Celebrity Net Worth