Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan unlocked the achievement of becoming the first-ever athlete to become a billionaire in 2016. Even though Jordan achieved this feat after his retirement, the 6x NBA Champion continued to build his empire after that. MJ’s charisma, personality, and sporting ability have managed to find a place in the fans’ hearts. Moreover, a recent report revealed Air Jordan’s dominance over active athletes in terms of popularity and net worth. Notably, Jordan overtook legends like Tiger Woods, LeBron James, and Floyd Mayweather.
Apart from the annual salary from NBA franchises, Jordan accumulated his resources from various brand deals and businesses. Many consider the Nike and Jordan association as one of the most successful sportswear partnerships. Moreover, the Jordan brand contributed $19 Billion to Nike’s revenue in the span of five years. Meanwhile, Jordan’s investment in sporting teams like the Charlotte Hornets and 23XI Racing team could have added brownie points to his popularity.
Michael Jordan stands on top of the sporting world
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An article reported by Sportico revealed the highest-paid athletes of all time, with a net worth adjusted to inflation in 2022. Michael Jordan topped the list with an estimated net worth of a whopping $3.3 Billion.
However, Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James ranks sixth with $1.53 Billion. Notably, James emerged as the first active NBA player to become a billionaire.
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Golf legend Tiger Woods grabbed second place with an adjusted net worth of $2.5 Billion. Whereas, Floyd Mayweather topped among the boxers with $1.41 Billion. Apart from the legends’ net worth, MJ emerged as the most favorite sporting personality in America through voting.
MJ saves the day for Nike
Before signing the deal with a young Michael Jordan, Nike was strangled in the clutches of a possible shutdown. The company witnessed a massive fall in its stock price by 50%. However, Jordan’s rising popularity saved the day and led the company to become one of the most successful sportswear brands. Notably, the Nike-Jordan origin story is getting a feature film titled Air starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleck.
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What do you make of Michael Jordan’s domination over the popularity and net worth of athletes around the globe? Let us know in the comments below.