Federer's Sneaker Bet Pays Off: How a 3% Stake in On Holding Made Him $500 Million More Than 20 Grand Slam Wins

Roger Federer's net worth of $1.3 billion primarily comes from endorsements and investments, rather than his $130.6 million in prize money from his 24-year tennis career and 20 Grand Slam titles. His biggest financial wins came through a strategic investment in Swiss sneaker company On Holding, where he purchased an estimated 3% stake, making him at least $500 million richer. This move dwarfs his earnings from other partnerships and tennis achievements.

Roger Federer, the tennis legend, was recently recognized as a billionaire with a net worth of $1.3 billion, according to Bloomberg. However, only a fraction of his fortune, approximately 10%, comes from prize money earned over his 24-year career [1]. The remainder of his wealth is attributed to strategic investments and high-profile endorsements.

Federer's most significant financial win came from his investment in Swiss sneaker company On Holding. He acquired about 3% of the brand in 2019, after noticing its popularity among his wife and friends. The brand has since become a major hit in the U.S. and is now valued at around $17 billion, making Federer's stake worth at least $500 million, nearly 40% of his total fortune [1].

Federer's endorsement deals have also contributed significantly to his wealth. He has worked with more than a dozen global brands, including Credit Suisse (now UBS), Lindt, Mercedes-Benz, and Rolex. His long-term partnerships have generated substantial annual earnings. For instance, he reportedly earned around $8 million annually from Rolex, $5 million a year from Mercedes-Benz, and about $20 million in total from Lindt [1]. In 2018, Japanese retailer Uniqlo signed him for $300 million over 10 years [1].

Federer's investment portfolio is managed by Team8, the management firm he co-founded in 2013 with longtime agent Tony Godsick, and Format A AG, a Swiss company that oversees his charitable foundation [1].

Roger Federer's career on the ATP Tour spanned over two decades, during which he claimed an impressive 20 Major titles and reigned as the world number one for 310 weeks. His dazzling playing style and cheerful personality have made him a beloved figure in the tennis world. However, his financial success is largely due to his business acumen and strategic investments.

References:
[1] https://e.vnexpress.net/news/business/billionaires/how-much-of-tennis-billionaire-roger-federer-s-1-3b-fortune-comes-from-prize-money-4912881.html