The rugby industry has seen a significant surge in wealth, with top players earning millions through endorsements, media deals, and sponsorships.
The global rugby market was valued at £3.29 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach £5.16 billion by 2030.
In 2024, Simon McDowell leads the list of the world’s richest rugby players with a net worth of £44.28 million.
A former Irish rugby player whose career was cut short by injury, McDowell transitioned to a successful career as an umpire and, more notably, runs the McDowell family’s thriving Kilwaughter Chemical Company, which provides products to the construction and agriculture industries.
Sonny Bill Williams follows with a net worth of £20.5 million, having earned his fortune through his exceptional careers in rugby union, rugby league, and boxing, alongside lucrative endorsement deals with global brands such as Adidas and Powerade.
Jonny Wilkinson, celebrated for his game-winning drop goal in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, has a net worth of £17.42 million, a result of his rugby career with both Newcastle Falcons and Toulon, as well as his business ventures and endorsement deals.
Mike Tindall, who became a household name thanks to his marriage to Zara Phillips, granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, boasts a net worth of £16.4 million.
While his rugby career was impressive, his media presence—through appearances on reality TV shows—has also helped him amass significant wealth over the years.
At just 30 years old, Handré Pollard is the youngest on the list, with a net worth of £2.46 million.
The South African fly-half has already had a stellar career, including a pivotal role in South Africa’s 2023 Rugby World Cup victory.
With his ongoing success at Leicester Tigers, Pollard is well on his way to further financial growth in the years to come.
The global rugby industry has experienced significant growth, with the Rugby World Cup 2023 generating £1.55 billion in spending and contributing a net input of £749.06 million to the French economy.