Roger Federer ends GOAT debate, becomes the 2nd Tennis player to reach BILLIONAIRE status

Roger Federer has now secured a place among the world’s financial elite. 

On August 22 2025, Forbes officially estimated his net worth at about US $1.1 billion.

The 20-time Grand Slam singles champion has now become the first billionaire in the modern Tennis era.

This milestone crown is not built solely on court victories but further underscores his position as one of the richest Tennis players of all time.

In fact, Federer’s career prize money of nearly US $131 million ranks third behind Novak Djokovic (US $189 million) and Rafael Nadal (US $135 million).

Federer’s billionaire status stems from more than his legendary performances on court.

It reflects a strategic expansion into business and branding. 

A seasoned entrepreneur, the 44-year-old has diversified his investments to include NetJets, Oliver Peoples, and UBS, illustrating a portfolio that spans aviation, luxury eyewear, and banking. 

He also co-founded the management company Team8 in 2013 and later helped launch the Laver Cup in 2017, now a prestigious annual team tennis event pitting Europe against the rest of the world.

The significant leap into billionaire ranks is largely attributable to his 2019 investment in the Swiss sportswear company On, where he took a 3% equity stake after being introduced to the brand through his wife’s preference for their sneakers.

On’s successful New York Stock Exchange IPO in 2021 and its current market capitalisation - approaching US $15 billion – has elevated Federer’s equity alone to over US $375 million. 

Additional income streams from long-term sponsorship deals such as a US $300 million deal with Uniqlo and earlier contracts with Nike (US $150 million), Rolex, Mercedes-Benz, Lindt, and Moët & Chandon – have further bolstered his financial empire.

In reaching billionaire status, Federer becomes only the second tennis player in history to do so, following Romania’s Ion Ţiriac, whose net worth is currently estimated at $2.3 billion.

A former singles top 10 player on the ATP Tour, Tiriac was active from 1958 to 1979 and won 34 career singles titles.

More broadly, Federer is now the seventh athlete to achieve billionaire status, joining a prestigious lineup that includes Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, and Tiger Woods. 

Notably, James and Woods are among the few to have become billionaires while still actively competing, whereas Federer achieved this milestone in retirement.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo, another global icon of sport – is frequently cited as having crossed the billionaire threshold following his record-breaking contracts with Al Nassr and endorsement empire. 

However, Forbes has yet to officially confirm his status, meaning Federer’s position in this elite club remains distinct and firmly recognised.