7 of the richest pro golfers in the world: net worths, ranked – from Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy to Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman … but who gambled away US$100 million and still remains a top earner?

Dec 12 , 2023

Greg Norman, Tiger Woods and Fred Couples are among golf’s richest players. Photos: Reuters, @tigerwoods/Instagram, AFP

Rory McIlroy has business ventures with Tiger Woods and NBC, but had his biggest ever payday on the course last year thanks to a whopping US$26 million in prize money

Meanwhile, Greg Norman – CEO of controversial Saudi-backed Liv golf league – has amassed US$400 million, but is also known for his involvement in charitable initiatives

They’re famous for their impressive swings and ability to keep cool during tense moments on the course. Their golfing prowess also brings in major money, as it does in other sports. These golfing sensations have all amassed an impressive wealth portfolio, and are the richest in 2023 according to their estimated net worth.

7. Fred Couples: US$120 million

Fred Couples’ 1988 video demonstrating his swing technique is still a guide for aspiring players. Photo: Getty Images

The 15-time PGA Tour winner has an estimated net worth of US$120 million, per Celebrity Net Worth. The 64-year-old professional golfer and former world number one has expanded his wealth portfolio through endorsement deals with Ashworth, Jaguar and Bridgestone over the course of his career. It is his tempo that has been his career trademark and the famous 1988 instruction video demonstrating his swing that remains a guide for today’s aspiring golfers.

6. Rory McIlroy: US$170 million

Rory McIlroy earned US$26 million in prize money alone last year. Photo: @rorymcilroy/Instagram

McIlroy had his biggest course payday last year, earning a whopping US$26 million in prize money, per Forbes. He also partnered with Tiger Woods to established TMRW Sports, a tech-focused venture. In 2019 he went into business with NBC Sports to launch a digital subscription service which helps golfers improve their game. According to Celebrity Net Worth, the golf champ has an estimated net worth of US$170 million, including his on- and off-field ventures.

5. Gary Player: US$250 million

South African golf legend Gary Player says he has a hectic schedule, even at 88. Photo: @gary.player/Instagram

Known as the Black Knight, the South African golf star has amassed a US$250 million fortune, per Celebrity Net Worth. At 88, Player describes himself as a businessman with a “hectic, hectic” schedule in an interview with Forbes Africa, and spoke about his legacy. “When I die and pass away, I want people to know that I tried my best in life. And that I am sorry for all the mistakes I made. Admittedly, we all make mistakes.” In South Africa, he has spent time integrating golf courses into local communities.