England football star David Beckham has become the first British sportsman to reach billionaire status, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List.
The report stated that Beckham and his wife, Victoria Beckham, now have a combined fortune estimated at £1.185 billion ($1.583 billion).
Their wealth places them second among the richest sports-related figures in the United Kingdom, behind the family of former Formula One executive Bernie Ecclestone, whose fortune is reportedly valued at £2 billion.
Since retiring from football in 2013, David Beckham has expanded his business interests and is now a co-owner of Inter Miami CF, currently regarded as the most valuable club in Major League Soccer with an estimated worth of £1.07 billion.
The former England captain also earns heavily from endorsement deals and ambassador roles with global brands such as Adidas and Hugo Boss.
During his football career, Beckham won several major trophies with Manchester United, including the Premier League and UEFA Champions League.
He also played for Real Madrid CF, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain F.C..
Victoria Beckham, who first became famous as a member of the pop group Spice Girls, has also built major wealth through her fashion business.
Other athletes featured on the Rich List include seven-time Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, who ranked fifth with an estimated fortune of £435 million.
Golf star Rory McIlroy was ranked seventh with £325 million, while boxer Anthony Joshua placed eighth with £240 million.
Heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury followed in ninth place with an estimated wealth of £162 million.
Harry Kane and former tennis champion Andy Murray shared 10th position with fortunes valued at £110 million each.
Among business figures linked to sports, Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, saw his fortune drop by £1.85 billion to £15.194 billion.
The Sunday Times Rich List said the value of his petrochemical company, INEOS, fell due to rising debt, declining revenue, and losses of more than £515 million.
Sports promoters Barry Hearn and Eddie Hearn also joined the billionaire ranks, with their combined fortune estimated at £1.035 billion.
Barry Hearn founded Matchroom Sport, a major organisation involved in boxing, darts, and snooker promotion, while Eddie Hearn currently serves as chairman.
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