Phil Mickelson, Tiger woods, Jack Nicklaus

The 15 Richest Golfers of All Time – Ranked

June 19, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Golf has long been one of the most lucrative sports in the world. With massive tournament purses, global sponsorship deals, and the recent financial boost from the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Tour, the top players in the game's history have built enormous fortunes. Here's a breakdown of the 15 richest golfers ever – starting from No. 15 and working our way to the billionaire at the top.

15. Nick Faldo – £47 million

Nick Faldo remains one of England’s greatest golfers, having won six Major titles during his stellar career. He’s also had a lengthy career in broadcasting and golf course design. His consistent presence in the sport after retirement helped grow his fortune to around £47 million.

14. Ian Poulter – £47 million

Known for his passion and Ryder Cup heroics, Ian Poulter earned most of his wealth through PGA and European Tour events, as well as clothing endorsements. His move to LIV Golf only added to his already considerable bank account.

13. Sergio Garcia – £55 million

The Spaniard captured global fame after finally winning The Masters in 2017. Garcia has been a regular contender on both the PGA and European Tours and boosted his earnings with a switch to LIV Golf in recent years.

12. Vijay Singh – £59 million

Fijian legend Vijay Singh, a three-time Major winner, was once the world’s No. 1 ranked golfer. His consistency throughout the 2000s made him one of the top earners in prize money, and he continues to benefit from endorsement deals.

11. Ernie Els – £67 million

“The Big Easy” won four Major championships and more than 70 professional titles worldwide. A successful businessman, Els also owns a thriving wine label and golf course design company, which helped increase his wealth significantly.

10. Dustin Johnson – £79 million

With wins at the US Open (2016) and The Masters (2020), Dustin Johnson was one of the top stars on the PGA Tour. His move to LIV Golf reportedly came with a massive payout, cementing his place among golf’s richest players.

9. Jordan Spieth – £87 million

Spieth had one of the most dominant years in golf history in 2015, winning The Masters and the US Open. Still in his early 30s, the Texan has added millions through endorsements with top global brands.

8. Fred Couples – £95 million

A fan favorite from the 1990s, Fred Couples won The Masters in 1992 and has remained a visible figure in golf since. His real estate investments and golf course design work have contributed greatly to his net worth.

7. Rory McIlroy – £134 million

One of the most marketable athletes in the world, Rory McIlroy has won four Majors and been a regular contender for over a decade. He’s signed lucrative endorsement deals with companies like Nike and TaylorMade.

6. Gary Player – £198 million

South Africa’s greatest golfer won all four Majors during his illustrious career. Even into his senior years, Player remains active through business ventures, fitness advocacy, and course design, maintaining his vast fortune.

5. Phil Mickelson – £237 million

With six Majors and countless memorable moments, Phil Mickelson has earned more than most in prize money and off-course deals. His high-profile move to LIV Golf brought him an enormous payday that skyrocketed his wealth.

4. Jack Nicklaus – £316 million

Nicklaus holds the record with 18 Major championships and is considered by many to be the greatest golfer of all time. His design firm, Nicklaus Design, has built over 400 golf courses worldwide and plays a key role in his financial success.

3. Greg Norman – £316 million

The Australian legend held the world No. 1 ranking for 331 weeks. Norman has built a massive business empire that includes wine, real estate, and his role as the CEO of LIV Golf – all adding to his fortune.

2. Arnold Palmer – £553 million

A trailblazer in golf and business, Palmer turned his on-course success into a global brand with endorsement deals and his own drink line. He was one of the first athletes to become a marketing powerhouse.

1. Tiger Woods – £790 million

No golfer – or arguably any athlete – has reached Tiger Woods’ level of global fame and wealth. With 15 Major wins and 82 PGA Tour titles, he has redefined golf’s popularity. Woods also has massive endorsement deals and business ventures that have made him golf’s only billionaire.