Sir David Beckham has officially become the UK's first billionaire sportsman, according to the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List. The former England captain and his wife, Victoria Beckham, now boast a combined wealth of £1.185 billion, placing them second among sports figures behind the family of ex-Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone, whose fortune sits at £2 billion.

Beckham's rise to this milestone is a testament to his savvy off-pitch moves. Now 51 and a co-owner of Major League Soccer's Inter Miami—valued at a staggering $1.45 billion (£1.07 billion)—he's also a brand ambassador for giants like Adidas and Hugo Boss. His knighthood in November was the cherry on top of a career that began at Manchester United and has since evolved into a global business empire.

Victoria Beckham's contribution to the family's wealth comes from her fashion label, building on her fame as a Spice Girl. Together, they've created a powerhouse brand that transcends sports and entertainment.

The list also highlights other sports stars making big moves. Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy sits seventh with £325 million, boosted by his back-to-back Masters titles at age 37. Meanwhile, Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has slipped from seventh to ninth overall in the UK, with his wealth dropping by £1.85 billion to £15.194 billion.

Promoters Barry and Eddie Hearn have joined the billionaire club with a combined £1.035 billion. Barry, founder of Matchroom Sport, has built a legacy in boxing, darts, and snooker, while Eddie promotes British boxer Anthony Joshua, who ranks eighth among sports figures at £240 million—just ahead of heavyweight rival Tyson Fury at £162 million.

Seven-time F1 champion Sir Lewis Hamilton is fifth with £435 million, while England football captain Harry Kane and two-time Wimbledon champion Sir Andy Murray share the tenth spot at £110 million each. From the pitch to the boardroom, these athletes prove that greatness doesn't end when the game does—it just takes a new form.