Forbes has released a list of the highest-earning golfers in the world for 2023. The rankings take into account tournament earnings, including prize money and bonuses from the past year, as well as estimates of sponsorship deals, appearance fees, licensing income, and profits from their businesses.
Leading the list is American golfer Dustin Johnson, who has amassed a staggering $107 million. Johnson has an impressive track record, with 24 PGA Tour victories and six World Golf Championship titles. In 2022, he made a move to LIV Golf.
Following closely behind is Phil Mickelson, who earned $106 million. Mickelson has achieved great success in his career, including 45 PGA Tour victories and six major championships. In 2021, he made history by becoming the oldest major winner at the age of 50 when he won the PGA Championship. Mickelson generated controversy by expressing his willingness to join LIV Golf despite concerns about human rights violations in Saudi Arabia.
Rory McIlroy, a former world number one and current number three, occupies the third spot with earnings of $80.8 million. McIlroy has won four major championships and 19 PGA Tour events.
Tiger Woods, a legendary figure in golf, follows with $75.1 million in earnings. Woods holds the record for the most PGA Tour wins, tied with Sam Snead at 82. Throughout his career, he has claimed numerous major titles and earned an estimated $1.8 billion.
Other notable players on the list include Cameron Smith with $73 million, Brooks Koepka with $72 million, Bryson DeChambeau with $69 million, Jon Rahm with $53 million, Patrick Reed with $52 million, and Jordan Spieth with $47.5 million.
These golfers have achieved remarkable success on the course and have also benefited from lucrative sponsorship deals and business ventures. Their earnings highlight the popularity and financial rewards associated with professional golf.