Golf has always been a sport associated with prestige, elegance, and wealth. But in the modern era, especially with the emergence of the LIV Golf Tour and soaring endorsement deals, the financial rewards have reached unprecedented heights.
From legends of the past to today’s global superstars, these golfers have built fortunes through tournament wins, business ventures, and iconic brand partnerships. Here’s a look at the 15 richest golfers of all time, ranked by net worth, starting with No. 15.
15. Nick Faldo – £48 million
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Sir Nick Faldo is one of the most successful British golfers of all time, with six major titles to his name. In addition to his playing career, his wealth has grown through golf course design and a long-standing role as a TV analyst.
Known for his fiery personality and Ryder Cup heroics, Ian Poulter built his fortune through consistent play and high-profile endorsements. He was among the early names to join the LIV Golf Tour, boosting his earnings even further.
The Spaniard finally captured his first major at the 2017 Masters after years of close calls. Garcia has remained a global name in the sport and continues to add to his wealth through international appearances and LIV Golf involvement.
12. Vijay Singh – £60 million
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Fijian golfer Vijay Singh dominated the early 2000s, famously overtaking Tiger Woods as world No. 1. His relentless work ethic and tournament wins have earned him a place among golf’s wealthiest players.
11. Ernie Els – £68 million
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Nicknamed “The Big Easy,” South African Ernie Els has four major wins and a smooth swing recognized around the world. His business ventures in wine and golf course design have also contributed significantly to his wealth.
10. Dustin Johnson – £80 million
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With two majors and a powerful presence on the course, Dustin Johnson made headlines when he joined the LIV Tour. His decision significantly increased his net worth and cemented his place in golf’s financial elite.
Spieth exploded onto the scene with a magical 2015 season, winning both The Masters and the U.S. Open. With three major titles and lucrative endorsement deals, he remains one of the sport’s most marketable figures.
8. Fred Couples – £96 million
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A fan favorite since the 1990s, Fred Couples won The Masters in 1992 and reached world No. 1 that same year. His investments in real estate have helped him build an impressive fortune.
7. Rory McIlroy – £136 million
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The Northern Irishman became a global icon after winning the U.S. Open at just 22 years old. With four majors and a strong stance in favor of the PGA Tour, McIlroy’s success has extended far beyond the course.
6. Gary Player – £200 million
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One of only five men to complete the career Grand Slam, South Africa’s Gary Player remains a legend of the game. His business empire spans fitness, design, and global speaking engagements.
“Lefty” has won six majors and built a brand around his short game brilliance and charisma. His move to LIV Golf brought in massive income, pushing him higher up the sport’s wealth rankings.
4. Jack Nicklaus – £320 million
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With 18 majors, Jack Nicklaus holds the record for the most in history. His course design company, Nicklaus Design, has been as successful as his playing career, helping him build immense wealth.
3. Greg Norman – £320 million
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The “Great White Shark” spent 331 weeks as the world’s top-ranked golfer. Beyond his playing days, Norman has thrived as a businessman and currently leads LIV Golf as its CEO.
2. Arnold Palmer – £560 million
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A true icon, Arnold Palmer transcended golf and became one of the first athlete brands. With 62 PGA Tour wins and countless licensing deals, his legacy is as financial as it is sporting.
Tiger Woods is not only the richest golfer of all time but one of the most influential athletes ever. With 15 majors, 82 PGA Tour wins, and unmatched endorsement power, Woods has built a billion-dollar empire that changed the face of the sport.
