Essential Golf: A passion for the Game

Who Are Golf’s Biggest Spenders?

Who Are Golf's Biggest Spenders?

Wealthiest Golfers of All-Time

Greg Norman

Greg Norman has continuously stunned the golf community with his prowess in the driving range, spectacular business acumen, and wealth-building skills. Greg has raked in substantial amounts of money on the course since going pro in 1976, but his entrepreneurial side seems to contribute to most of his estimated $400 million net worth. The Greg Norman Company, founded in 1993, has vast interests in wineries, private equity, golf course design, restaurants, real estate, etc, making him one of the golf’s richest ever players.

A notable investment was buying a 12% stake in Cobra Golf equipment manufacturing company at $1.9M in 1991 and earning a $40 million profit five years later from a takeover. Norman has also invested heavily in real estate, such as the famous 11,600-acre Seven Lakes Ranch in Colorado that he acquired in 2004. He converted it into quite an attraction boasting the main lodge, spa, fitness center, guest lodges, and advanced equestrian facilities. The pro golfer also bought a $4.9 million mansion in Jupiter, Florida, and after several improvements, sold it for a reported $40 million in 2021.

Phil Mickelson

Phil Mickelson is undoubtedly one of the best and wealthiest golfers on the planet. The star has earned over $100 million in tournament winnings. Adding to his investments and valuable endorsements from brands like KPMG, Barclays, and Rolex, Phil is worth over $300 million. The golfer’s net worth should hit a record high after joining the LIV league on a $200 million contract signed in June 2022.

Apart from the course, the golfer and other investors own around six premium private golf courses where members pay annual memberships. Phil also has interests in real estate, including a parcel in Jupiter, Florida, that he bought in January 2020 next to fellow stars like Tiger.

Jack Nicklaus

The Golden Bear is one of the most successful golfers in history, with a record 18 major championships and 73 PGA Tour victories. With such success comes a hefty net worth, and the star is worth around $400 million. Jack’s wealth has not only come from the course as the man has proven to be an astute businessman over the years. 

The great champion has released several instructional golf videos and books and runs Nicklaus Design, a leading global golf course design company boasting over 380 golf courses in 36 countries. Jack’s other business interests include a branded lemonade deal from the AriZona Beverage company, a line of golf balls, and a partnership with Terlato Wines. The star is also known for his extraordinary philanthropic side, like in February 2015 when he donated $60 million with his wife to the Miami Children’s Health System.

Gary Player

It would be a crime to complete the golf’s big spenders list without including Gary Player, one of the game’s greats. Gary rose to the top through sheer hard work and determination and deserves any luxuries his vast $250 million net worth can afford him. The World Golf Hall of Fame inductee has won over 150 professional tournaments in his career, earning a fat sum while at it. Apart from tournament wins, the golfer’s firm Gary Player Design boasts over 400 design projects worldwide, and he is also an accomplished author.

Parting Shot

Although you might enjoy playing golf just for fun and keeping fit, it’s essential to realize the wealth potential of this sport, judging by the financial success that the above stars have achieved. If you notice your child taking an interest in golf, invest in them because you could raise the world’s next billionaire. Most of us would trade anything to experience the luxury golf big spenders enjoy, but it’s good to note that they earned it from mere hard work and consistency.