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Former football icon David Beckham has made history by becoming the first British sports personality to achieve billionaire status, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
Beckham, alongside his wife Victoria Beckham, now holds an estimated combined fortune of £1.185 billion ($1.58 billion). Their wealth places them among the richest figures in British sport, second only to the family of former Formula One executive Bernie Ecclestone.
Since retiring from professional football in 2013, Beckham has built a powerful business portfolio. He is a co-owner of Inter Miami CF, which has grown into one of Major League Soccer’s most valuable teams. In addition, he continues to earn significantly through global endorsement deals with major brands such as Adidas and Hugo Boss.
During his playing career, Beckham captained England and enjoyed major success with Manchester United, winning multiple Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. He also played for top clubs including Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Victoria Beckham has also contributed significantly to the couple’s wealth through her successful fashion business, after initially rising to fame as a member of the pop group Spice Girls.
Other prominent athletes featured on the Rich List include seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, ranked fifth with an estimated £435 million, and golfer Rory McIlroy in seventh place with £325 million.
Heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua ranks eighth with £240 million, followed by rival Tyson Fury. Footballer Harry Kane and tennis legend Andy Murray share tenth place.
Among business figures with sporting ties, Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, saw his wealth decline amid financial challenges at his company INEOS.
Meanwhile, sports promoters Barry Hearn and Eddie Hearn have also entered the billionaire ranks, reflecting the growing commercial power of global sport.
