The sports industry has been thriving in recent years, both in terms of its popularity and in a commercial sense too. And just like the industry, some of the best athletes in their own sport have also managed to become filthy rich. For them, it's seemingly all play and no work–and an eventful ride to the bank afterward. It is reported that the global sporting events revenues total as much as $6 billion and the sports betting market is said to reach right around the $140 billion mark by the year 2028.
The MMA world has Conor McGregor and Formula 1 fans have Lewis Hamilton while boxing fans have their Floyd Mayweather. Needless to say, the world of sports can be pretty lucrative indeed.
So, if you want to know who the richest athletes are, here are some names you’re probably already familiar with.
1. Michael Jordan
Michael Jeffery Jordan, also known as MJ, is one of the most prominent sports figures in the world of basketball. The former American basketball player has had many titles to his name but the National Basketball Association website refers to Jordan as the ‘greatest basketball player of all time.’ Along with the high praise from his fellow peers and employers, Michael Jordan also enjoys a high net worth–according to Forbes, the former Chicago Bulls player enjoys a net worth of around $1.6 billion.
NBAE | Dunking at the court and cashing cheques–all at the same time
2. Tiger Woods
There is a good reason why professional American golfer Eldrick Tont Woods is nicknamed Tiger–what with his swift moves and putting ability, the golfer has reigned the sport of golf for several years now, winning one title after another and making new sporting records. Woods is also one of the leading and most prominent athletes of his time, and his net worth reflects it too. The 46-year-old golfer has $800 million to his name.
Getty Images | Looks like Tiger Woods is pretty familiar with knocking things out of the park
3. Jack Nicklaus
American golfer and golf court designer, Jack Nicklaus was nicknamed the Golden Bear because of his blonde hair and husky build. But despite his physique, Nicklaus is still considered to be one of the greatest golfers, despite the fact that it has been several years since his retirement. Throughout his professional career, Nicklaus impressively won 117 professional tournaments and went on to earn over $1.2 billion during his career. As of today, his net worth stands at a cool $400 million.
Getty Images | A reputation and riches that remain sticking even when you’re old and grey
These are some of the richest athletes in the world! Who surprised you the most?
