Australian Athletes Amass Fortunes Beyond the Field
From AFL stars to F1 drivers, a new generation of athletes is leveraging sports careers into vast business empires and lucrative investments.
Some of Australia's most recognizable athletes are building fortunes that extend far beyond their playing careers, demonstrating remarkable business acumen and investment strategies. From logistics empires to health shakes and esports ventures, these individuals are proving that athletic success can be a springboard to significant financial achievement.
Lindsay Fox, a former AFL player for St Kilda, has amassed an estimated net worth of A$5.57 billion, making him one of Australia's wealthiest individuals. Fox's fortune was built on the foundation of Linfox, a logistics company he started with a single truck in 1956. His business career began while he was still playing, eventually leading him to focus entirely on building one of Australia's largest logistics firms.
NRL star Adam MacDougall transitioned from the football field to the health and wellness industry, co-founding Cranky Health, the company behind The Man Shake and The Lady Shake. With an estimated combined fortune of A$635 million in 2024, MacDougall's venture was motivated by a personal desire to help people manage their health more effectively. The company's significant growth led to an investment that propelled the couple onto Australia's wealth lists.
Golfer Greg Norman has leveraged his global sports profile into a diverse business empire. His golf course design business, responsible for over 100 courses worldwide, forms the core of his operations. Beyond golf, Norman has expanded into apparel, wine, real estate, and restaurants. His role as the first CEO of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf also added to his substantial net worth, estimated to be over A$600 million.
NBA player Ben Simmons, despite facing career setbacks due to injuries, maintains an estimated net worth of A$260 million. His wealth is largely derived from multimillion-dollar NBA contracts secured early in his career. Even while sidelined, Simmons has made headlines for investments, including a controlling stake in a professional fishing team, though he maintains his focus on reviving his basketball career.
Former Essendon player Andrew Welsh built a significant fortune in property development after retiring from the AFL. His company, Wel.Co, developed Thornhill Park, a large residential community in Melbourne. Welsh prepared for his post-football career by networking and learning from industry professionals while still playing.
Formula 1 driver Daniel Ricciardo has capitalized on his high profile and personality, which contributed to his wealth even as his on-track performance declined. His estimated net worth of A$194 million has been bolstered by ventures outside of racing, including his clothing label Enchanté and a wine collaboration, DR3.
Golfer Cameron Smith's move to LIV Golf and his success as a major champion have contributed to his estimated net worth of A$176 million. Smith, originally from Queensland, has established a life away from the course, including a home in Florida.
Jason Day has also found success through an equity stake and design involvement with the golf fashion brand Malbon Golf. His unique and sometimes controversial on-course attire generated significant publicity for the brand. Day's overall wealth is estimated at A$167 million.
Emerging F1 talent Oscar Piastri, with an estimated net worth of A$122 million, is a newcomer to the rich lists. His wealth has been accumulated primarily since securing a Formula 1 seat, with early career funding supported by his father's business.
Former NBA player Andrew Bogut has transitioned into business, including a part-ownership stake in the Sydney Kings. His estimated net worth is around A$120 million, reflecting a focus on diversified investments and a direct role in the business side of Australian basketball.
Brad Moran, a former AFL player, achieved significant financial success by co-founding CitrusAd, a technology business that created advertising space on retailers' websites. The company was acquired by Publicis for a reported A$205 million, contributing to Moran's estimated A$78 million fortune.
Jordan Mailata, who had no prior American football experience before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, has become a Super Bowl winner with an estimated net worth exceeding A$49 million. His NFL career represents a remarkable transition from Australian rugby league pathways.
Ash Barty, who retired from professional tennis at age 25 as the world No. 1, has ventured into children's book publishing with the 'Little Ash' series. Her estimated net worth is approximately A$45 million, with her earnings from book deals and sponsorships not publicly disclosed.
Cricketer Steve Smith has seen a significant return on an early investment in the mattress start-up Koala. His A$100,000 investment in 2015 was reportedly valued at over A$13.2 million after the company's 2026 sharemarket debut. Smith's career earnings from cricket, including international and T20 leagues, have also contributed to his substantial wealth.