Michael Jordan

Net worth: $3.5 billion. Jordan earned $93 million in NBA salary during his entire playing career. His Jordan Brand, a subsidiary of Nike, generates $6.6 billion in annual revenue — he receives approximately 5%, or $330 million per year, just from that deal alone. He sold the Charlotte Hornets in 2023 for $3 billion (he purchased the team for $275 million in 2010). Jordan is the first athlete to reach billionaire status primarily through endorsements and brand equity rather than playing contracts. He still earns more per year than any active athlete.