While many athletes make millions of dollars during their careers, some are fortunate enough to rake in even more money after retiring from their chosen sport.
Read on as we look at three former stars went from athletic phenoms to financial juggernauts, starting with one whose ‘brand’ transcends the profession he is associated with.
David Beckham
David Beckham broke out of the Manchester United youth ranks into the first team with the ‘class of 1992’ and rapidly became a superstar.
The midfielder represented numerous top clubs during his career, and worked hard to cultivate his off-field image in preparation for life after football.
Beckham married Victoria Adams, a fashion icon and pop sensation, expanding his reach beyond sports. The pair built a multi-million-dollar brand together.
He helped launch Inter Miami and is one of the co-owners of the American club. His clout played a massive role in their signing of Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi in 2023.
His 2014-established Beckham Brand Holdings is the cornerstone of an empire with interests in fashion, real estate, football, e-Commerce and television production.
Beckham’s fortunes have ballooned following endorsements with brands such as adidas and H&M. His investments range from whiskey to skincare and he is reportedly worth over $500 million.
Adam MacDougall
Adam MacDougall was one of the toughest and most prolific wingers in the National Rugby League (NRL) during his playing career.
After retiring in 2013 following 370 games, 16 State of Origin appearances for New South Wales and 32 matches for Australia, his post-playing career has been equally phenomenal.
MacDougall set out to help people stay healthy without the draconian fitness routines of professional athletes. He created Man Shake, a meal supplement for men on the go.
The 49-year-old teamed up with his wife, Belinda Krum, to found Cranky Health. This homely company has grown into a high-functioning nutrition empire.
Despite the pressure of a playing career, MacDougall decided to study economics and business at the University of Newcastle. That knowledge helped him build the company into a $635 million outfit.
The Sydney-born star recently sold a majority stake in Cranky Health to Pacific Equity Partners for $400m, firing him into Australia’s list of top 250 richest individuals.
The list includes figures such as the cryptocurrency gambling tycoons responsible for developing some of the best gambling apps in Australia, making MacDougall’s inclusion even more impressive.
MacDougall is in excellent company with the betting gurus. His teams – the Newcastle Knights, South Sydney Rabbitohs and Sydney Roosters – were popular with sports bettors during his playing days.
MacDougall boasts vast property investments while his company has new successful lines of products such as Man Fuel and Lady Shake.
Besides his business ventures, MacDougall has authored books on fitness and nutrition, bolstering his reputation as an entrepreneur and wellness icon.
Michael Jordan
Basketball great Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to six titles between 1984 and 2003. His efforts helped him rake in millions of dollars in annual salary.
However, Jordan’s earnings pale into comparison against his business ventures and endorsements. The six-time NBA Finals MVP is the richest athlete with a fortune worth over $3 billion.
His Air Jordans are one of most iconic items of footwear in the world, while his Jordan Brand generates massive revenue thanks to collaborations with sports organisations.
They are currently considering a partnership with Premier League club Chelsea, although a deal is reportedly contingent on them securing a top four finish this season.
The Jordan Brand is an iconic name in sportswear. Besides shoes and apparel, he co-owns a car dealership chain, restaurant and more in his diverse business portfolio.
Jordan also has endorsement deals with McDonald’s, Gatorade and Hanes. These arrangements have added millions to his fortune.
He traded his majority stake in the Charlotte Hornets NBA franchise for $3 billion and a smaller share in 2023, solidifying his billionaire status.
The two-time Olympic champion and NBA Hall of Famer is undoubtedly an inspiration to athletes and entrepreneurs.