Beckham Becomes First British Billionaire Sportsman

David Beckham has become Britain's first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List. His combined wealth with wife Victoria reached £1.185 billion ($1.583 billion), placing the couple second among the UK's wealthiest sports-linked individuals, behind only Bernie Ecclestone's family, valued at £2 billion. Beckham, 51, retired from professional football in 2013 after playing for Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and captaining England. He is now co-owner of Inter Miami, estimated to be Major League Soccer's most valuable club at £1.07 billion. Beckham also holds major brand ambassador roles with Adidas and Hugo Boss. Victoria Beckham's contribution to their fortune stems largely from her fashion label, established after her rise to fame in The Spice Girls. Seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton ranks fifth on the list with £435 million. Rory McIlroy, the reigning Masters champion, is seventh with £325 million. Boxer Anthony Joshua is eighth with £240 million, ahead of rival Tyson Fury in ninth with £162 million. Harry Kane and Andy Murray share 10th place, each valued at £110 million. In the business sphere, Manchester United co-owner Jim Ratcliffe saw his fortune drop by £1.85 billion to £15.194 billion, following a valuation cut to his petrochemicals firm INEOS due to rising debt, falling revenues and a £515.7 million loss. Promoters Barry and Eddie Hearn have entered the billionaire bracket with combined wealth of £1.035 billion. Barry founded Matchroom Sport, a leading name in boxing, darts and snooker promotion, with Eddie serving as chairman.

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