Why They Rank
Tony Hawk's Pro Skater franchise generated $1.6B+. Birdhouse Skateboards founder. The 900 at X Games. Personally responsible for skateboarding's mainstream breakthrough.
The Fortune
Tony Hawk is the most famous skateboarder in history and the architect of skateboarding's transformation from underground subculture to mainstream global sport. His Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game franchise, launched in 1999, has generated over $1.6 billion in revenue and introduced skateboarding to an entire generation. Hawk's royalty on the franchise has been his single largest income stream, paying him tens of millions over two decades.
Beyond the video game, Hawk founded Birdhouse Skateboards, one of the most recognized brands in the sport, and co-owns multiple skateboarding-related businesses. His endorsement partners have included Bagel Bites, T-Mobile, and Kohl's, and his media appearances -- from MTV to the Today Show -- have kept him in the public eye for over 30 years. He also created the Tony Hawk Foundation (now The Skatepark Project), which has funded over 1,000 skateparks in underserved communities.
Hawk's influence on skateboarding's inclusion in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics -- the sport's Olympic debut -- is immeasurable. His 900 (two and a half aerial rotations) at the 1999 X Games remains one of the most iconic moments in action sports. His net worth of $140 million reflects a unique ability to commercialize a fringe sport into a global brand.
Wealth Source
Video game franchise, Birdhouse Skateboards, endorsements, media
Top Endorsements
Fun Facts
The Tony Hawk's Pro Skater video game franchise has sold over 60 million copies and generated more than $1.6 billion in revenue.
He landed the first-ever 900 (2.5 rotations) in competition at the 1999 X Games, a moment broadcast live that changed action sports forever.
Despite being the most famous skateboarder alive, he is frequently not recognized in person -- he has an entire social media series about people almost recognizing him.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the richest athlete of all time?
Michael Jordan is the richest athlete of all time with an estimated net worth of $3.5 billion. His wealth comes primarily from the Jordan Brand, the sale of the Charlotte Hornets, and decades of endorsement deals. His NBA playing salary was just $94 million -- a fraction of his total fortune.
How do athletes build wealth beyond their playing salary?
The wealthiest athletes build wealth through endorsement deals, equity stakes in companies, brand ownership, franchise ownership, venture capital, and real estate. The key insight is taking equity over flat endorsement fees whenever possible -- turning short-term fame into long-term compounding assets.
Which athletes are billionaires?
As of 2026, four athletes have confirmed billionaire status: Michael Jordan ($3.5B), Tiger Woods ($1.3B), LeBron James ($1.2B), and Magic Johnson ($1.2B). Several others are approaching the threshold, including Arnold Palmer's estate ($875M), Lionel Messi ($650M), and Michael Schumacher ($600M).
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