Forbes Magazine's highest-paid retired athletes of 2015 have had very surprising results. Unlike many would expect, David Beckham is actually not the one on the top spot.
Check out the list below:
1. Michael Jordan net worth: $1 billion
The NBA legend, who retired 12 years ago, is still earning a lot of bucks thanks to his Air Jordan line with Nike (he earns $100 million each year from Nike royalties). In fact, Michael Jordan net worth is $1 billion.
Michael Jordan earns $100 million per year.
2. David Beckham net worth: $350 million
David Beckham, on the other hand, took the second spot on the list. Much like Michael Jordan, David Beckham has his own several endorsement deals - like that Emporio Armani underwear campaign with his wife, Victoria Beckham.
David Beckham earns $75 million per year.
3. Arnold Palmer net worth: $675 million
Although Arnold Palmer has a higher net worth that David Beckham, the former pro-golfer takes the third spot on the list, thanks to his numerous golf courses around the globe.
Arnold Palmer earns $42 million per year.
4. Jack Nicklaus net worth: $280 million
A World Golf Hall of Famer, Jack Nicklaus own Nicklaus Design, a company that has 390 golf courses under its belt. The Golden Bear also has a clothing line, Perry Ellis, which also helps him rake in a lot of cash.
Jack Nicklaus earns $28 million per year.
5. Jerry Richardson net worth: $1.1 billion
A former NFL player, Jerry Richardson made a lot of money after his retirement from his shares in the Carolina Panthers. Not only that, but Richardson also holds some stocks in "one of the largest franchises in the Bojangles system with 50 locations."
Jerry Richardson earns $23 million per year.
6. Shaquille O'Neal net worth: $350 million
Shaquille O'Neal continues to garner income due to his Shaq-branded basketballs and a collaborative drink, Shaq Fu Punch, with AriZona Beverage Co. He's also done work with TNT, has a jewelry line with Zales, and has an affordable shoe line, Shaq/Dunkman.
Shaquille O'Neal earns $21 million per year.
7. Gary Player net worth: $200 million
Former professional golfer Gary Player flies all over the globe for his golf course design business. In addition to that, he's got endorsement deals with SAP, Rolex, Callaway, and Berenberg Bank.
Gary Player earns $21 million per year.
8. Magic Johnson net worth: $500 million
Magic Johnson was one of the most notable players in the NBA. But now that he's retired, he's staying behind the scenes as a minority owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers and the WNBA's Los Angeles Sparks.
Magic Johnson earns $20 million per year.
9. Pele net worth: $100 million
After a successful performance in the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Pele instantly became a target for sponsors. These include Proctor & Gamble, Santander, Vivo, Volkswagen, Hublot, Carrefour, Subway, and Emirates airline.
Pele earns $16 million per year.
10. Greg Norman net worth: $300 million
Another former pro-golfer, Greg Norman has been developing a long-term plan as a collaborative effort for his brand and Great White Shark Enterprises. Greg Norman also has numerous business endeavors, as well as being the lead golf analyst for Fox Sports.
Greg Norman earns $16 million per year.
11. Michael Strahan net worth: $45 million
A former New York Giant, former NFL player Michael Strahan currently hosts "Live! With Kelly and Michael," along with Kelly Ripa. He's also a football analyst for Fox, a partner at talent management company SMAC Entertainment.
Michael Strahan earns $14 million per year.
12. Li Na net worth: $40 million
A former tennis player, Li Na is the only female who made it to the list. The Chinese athlete garnered several endorsement deals in 2011 after winning the French Open, and being the first Asian-born winner in the Grand Slam singles event.
Li Na earns #13 million per year.
