Tiger Woods, a golfing legend, boasts a net worth of $800 million. Since turning professional in 1996, his career earnings have surpassed $1.8 billion, with many attributing his wealth to lucrative endorsements as much as to his athletic prowess on the course.
Over the years, Woods has become a symbol of success, both in golf and business, holding the title of the highest-earning golfer of all time and once being the highest-paid celebrity globally.
Golfing Achievements
Tiger Woods’ career is marked by numerous accolades, including:
- 15 professional major championships.
- 82 PGA Tour victories.
- 41 European Tour wins.
- Five Masters titles.
- A record for the longest streak as the World #1 ranked golfer (a total of 264 consecutive weeks).
- The lowest career scoring average in PGA Tour history.
- 11-time PGA Player of the Year.
In 2021, he was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. These accomplishments helped propel Woods into global fame, making him one of the most recognizable athletes in the world.
Sponsorship and Endorsements
Tiger Woods’ financial success can largely be attributed to his endorsement deals, especially with Nike, which became the cornerstone of his career earnings.
He signed a five-year, $40 million deal with Nike in 1996, just months after turning pro, and over the years, the value of these deals grew.
His Nike contract alone has been reported to have earned him upwards of $700 million over two decades, making it one of the most profitable sports endorsement deals ever.
Other major sponsors have included brands like Gatorade, Rolex, American Express, Gillette, and EA Sports, making him one of the most marketable athletes in history.
Woods’ earnings from endorsements have made up the lion’s share of his career wealth, contributing approximately 92% of his total income, compared to 8% from tournament winnings.
At the peak of his career, he was earning as much as $100 million annually through endorsements alone.
Business Ventures
Beyond golf, Woods has also ventured into business. One of his significant business pursuits has been his golf course design company.
He’s designed courses across the globe, and each project has earned him a hefty sum, with some estimates saying he can command as much as $10 million for a design project.
Additionally, Woods owns a private jet and a yacht named Privacy, which further showcases his lavish lifestyle.
Real Estate
Woods owns several high-profile properties, the most notable being his 12-acre oceanfront estate in Jupiter, Florida, valued at around $75–100 million.
The sprawling estate includes multiple swimming pools, a private golf course, and luxurious living spaces.
This real estate investment represents his financial acumen, as the property is estimated to have appreciated significantly since its construction.
His income from golf course designs, appearances, and sponsorship deals continues to fuel his massive net worth, ensuring his place among the wealthiest athletes globally.
Tiger Woods’ legacy as one of the greatest golfers of all time is cemented not only by his achievements on the course but by his business acumen and marketability off of it.