By Aderonke Ojo
Former Manchester United and England captain David Beckham has officially become Britain’s first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List. Beckham and his wife, Victoria Beckham, now boast a combined fortune estimated at £1.185 billion, marking another remarkable milestone in the football icon’s legacy beyond the pitch.
The former midfielder, who retired from professional football in 2013, has transformed himself into one of the most successful athlete-businessmen in the world. Beckham’s wealth continues to grow through major endorsement deals with global brands such as Adidas and Hugo Boss, while his role as co-owner of Inter Miami CF has significantly boosted his financial empire. Inter Miami is currently valued at around £1.07 billion, making it one of the most valuable clubs in Major League Soccer.
During his glittering football career, Beckham won multiple trophies with Manchester United, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. He also featured for Real Madrid CF, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain F.C., becoming one of football’s most recognizable global figures.
Victoria Beckham’s successful fashion business and entertainment career also contributed massively to the family’s rise into the billionaire class. The former member of the legendary pop group Spice Girls has built a respected fashion label that continues to expand internationally.
Elsewhere on the rich list, Lewis Hamilton ranked fifth with an estimated fortune of £435 million, while golf superstar Rory McIlroy followed with £325 million. Heavyweight boxing stars Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury also featured prominently among Britain’s wealthiest sporting figures.
Beckham’s rise from football superstar to billionaire businessman highlights the growing commercial power of modern athletes and cements his place among the most influential figures in global sports history.
