At 62, Michael Jordan continues to generate wealth like no other sports legend. The former Chicago Bulls star, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, didn’t just dominate on the court—he also built a financial empire that keeps him at the top long after retirement.

Jordan became more than just a sports icon—he became a global brand. His partnership with Nike, which began in 1984, has been instrumental in turning his name into a symbol of commercial success. Back then, as a rookie in the NBA, he signed an endorsement deal that included launching a signature shoe line and, most importantly, receiving 5% of the brand's royalties.

Michael Jordan Made Over $300 Million in One Year Thanks to This Deal

What seemed like a bold move at the time turned into a goldmine. In 2023 alone, that 5% stake brought in a staggering $330 million for Jordan. To put that in perspective, he earned a total of $94 million over his entire NBA career, which spanned from 1984 until his final retirement in 2003 with the Washington Wizards.

Nike also reaped massive benefits from the partnership. The company solidified its position as the top-selling sportswear brand in the U.S., and Jordan’s influence fueled its expansion. The offshoot brand, Jordan Brand, became a major player in its own right, specializing in basketball shoes and urban apparel. More recently, it has entered the world of soccer, outfitting Paris Saint-Germain and reportedly targeting the Brazilian national team for the 2026 World Cup.

Beyond Nike, Jordan has made savvy business moves in various sectors. He was the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets, a franchise he bought in 2010, and co-owns the 23XI Racing NASCAR team with Denny Hamlin. Over the years, he's landed endorsement deals with Gatorade, McDonald’s, and Hanes, and owns several restaurants, including “His Place” in Charlotte.

Through all of these ventures, Jordan has amassed an estimated fortune of over $4.15 billion, making him the richest athlete in history. His story proves that even after hanging up the sneakers, his legacy—and his bank account—continue to grow.