As of 2024, the richest swimmers by net worth are typically a mix of active competitors and retired legends, with earnings coming from prize money, endorsements, and various business ventures. Here’s a list of some of the wealthiest swimmers:
1. Michael Phelps
- Net Worth: Approximately $100 million.
- Career Highlights: With 23 Olympic gold medals, Michael Phelps is the most decorated Olympian of all time. His wealth comes from endorsements, sponsorships, and business ventures, including his swimwear line and various investments.
2. Ryan Lochte
- Net Worth: Approximately $20 million.
- Career Highlights: A 12-time Olympic medalist, Ryan Lochte has earned a significant portion of his wealth from endorsements and reality TV appearances.
3. Caeleb Dressel
- Net Worth: Approximately $10 million.
- Career Highlights: Known for his impressive performances in recent Olympics and World Championships, Dressel’s net worth includes prize money and endorsements.
4. Katie Ledecky
- Net Worth: Approximately $7 million.
- Career Highlights: A five-time Olympic gold medalist, Katie Ledecky has earned through endorsements and sponsorships.
5. Missy Franklin
- Net Worth: Approximately $5 million.
- Career Highlights: An Olympic gold medalist and world champion, Franklin’s earnings have been bolstered by endorsements and public appearances.
6. Ian Thorpe
- Net Worth: Approximately $5 million.
- Career Highlights: The Australian swimming legend earned his wealth from a successful swimming career, endorsements, and business ventures.
7. Natalie Coughlin
- Net Worth: Approximately $4 million.
- Career Highlights: With multiple Olympic medals and world records, Coughlin’s wealth comes from her swimming career and endorsement deals.
8. Adam Peaty
- Net Worth: Approximately $3 million.
- Career Highlights: The British swimmer is renowned for his breaststroke performances and has accumulated wealth through sponsorships and prize money.
9. Sarah Sjöström
- Net Worth: Approximately $2.5 million.
- Career Highlights: The Swedish swimmer has earned a significant portion of her wealth through endorsements and competition winnings.
10. Mireia Belmonte
- Net Worth: Approximately $2 million.
- Career Highlights: The Spanish swimmer has earned from her Olympic and World Championship performances, along with endorsements.
Additional Factors Affecting Wealth
- Endorsements: Many swimmers earn substantial amounts from endorsement deals with brands in sports and lifestyle sectors.
- Business Ventures: Some swimmers invest in businesses or start their own companies.
- Media Appearances: Appearances on TV, in commercials, and in various media outlets can also contribute to their wealth.
The figures can fluctuate due to new contracts, investments, and changes in the athletes’ careers. For the most up-to-date information, it's always good to check recent reports and financial disclosures.
