What Unnecessary Purchases Do Professional Athletes Make?
Learn how top-earning athletes choose to spend their fortunes on acquisitions far beyond practical necessity.
Professional athletes, often earning substantial incomes through contracts and endorsements, frequently acquire a range of goods and services that extend far beyond practical necessity. These acquisitions often highlight a preference for opulence and exclusivity, showcasing a lifestyle marked by significant discretionary spending. The following examples illustrate various types of purchases considered highly extravagant, from personalized modes of travel to elaborate living spaces and unique personal possessions.
High-End Transportation
Professional athletes frequently invest in high-end vehicles as a display of wealth. This includes extensive collections of luxury automobiles like Bugattis, Ferraris, and Rolls-Royces. Cristiano Ronaldo’s car collection reportedly exceeds $20 million, featuring an $8.9 million Bugatti Centodieci. Floyd Mayweather’s collection also includes multiple luxury cars.
Beyond cars, many athletes own private jets for convenience and privacy. Lionel Messi, for example, owns a Gulfstream V. Michael Jordan’s Gulfstream G650ER, valued around $65 million, features a custom black-and-blue paint job. These jets require substantial ongoing maintenance, adding to their overall cost.
Yachts also represent a significant expenditure for leisure. Michael Jordan’s superyacht “Joy” is valued at approximately $80 million and includes amenities like a basketball court and a full gym. Tiger Woods’ superyacht “Privacy” features a Jacuzzi, gym, and a decompression chamber for diving, with annual maintenance costs potentially reaching $2 million. Conor McGregor owns a Lamborghini yacht.
Lavish Real Estate
Professional athletes often acquire real estate that extends far beyond typical residential needs. These estates frequently feature excessive square footage and numerous bedrooms and bathrooms. LeBron James, for example, purchased a $23 million mansion in Los Angeles, with features like a rooftop terrace, an auto gallery, and a sizable pool.
Many of these properties boast amenities resembling a private resort. Michael Jordan’s $12.4 million estate in Jupiter, Florida, includes an athletic complex with a basketball court and gym. Tiger Woods’ Jupiter Island mansion, reportedly worth up to $60 million, features a private four-hole golf course, a 100-foot lap pool, and two yacht docks. These features contribute to substantial ongoing operational expenses.
Other examples of extravagant real estate include homes with private bowling alleys, multi-story garages for car collections, and indoor basketball courts. Stephen Curry’s $31 million mansion in Atherton, California, includes a movie theater, wine cellar, and a full-size basketball court. Such properties often require dedicated staff for upkeep and management, adding to their considerable cost.
Extravagant Personal Assets
Beyond transportation and real estate, professional athletes spend considerably on personal luxury items. High-value jewelry and luxury watches are common. Floyd Mayweather’s jewelry collection includes pieces like a Jacob & Co. Billionaire Watch valued at $18 million and diamond-encrusted chains. Many athletes own multiple high-end watches from brands like Rolex, Audemars Piguet, and Patek Philippe.
Designer clothing and accessory collections also represent significant expenditures. These collections extend to unique and rare collectibles, such as art or sports memorabilia. Some athletes also acquire exotic pets, requiring specialized care and substantial ongoing maintenance expenses. Examples include tiger cubs, stingrays, sharks, and alligators.
Personal services and experiences further exemplify this spending. This can include hosting lavish parties with private concerts, acquiring exclusive memberships to elite clubs, or investing in unique custom-built items. These indulgences reflect a desire for bespoke luxury and exclusivity.