Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler are leading the pack in golf earnings over the past year, with a combined pre-tax income of £117 million. The duo has left their rivals trailing in their wake, both in terms of prize money and off-course revenue.
McIlroy's Resurgence
The Northern Irishman has seen a resurgence in recent years, closing the gap on Scheffler not only in major titles but also in earnings. McIlroy's back-to-back Masters victories have boosted his marketability, with two-thirds of his income coming from off-course sources.
Scheffler's On-Course Dominance
Scheffler, who has been world No. 1 for 196 consecutive weeks, generates most of his income through competition. The Texan's on-course earnings are substantial, though his off-course appeal is not yet on par with McIlroy's.
LIV Golf's Rahm Leads Overall Earnings
Despite McIlroy and Scheffler's combined dominance, LIV Golf's Jon Rahm earned the most of any golfer in the past 12 months, with an estimated £84 million. However, his financial future is uncertain as Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund plans to stop funding LIV Golf beyond 2026.
US Open Performance
At the US Open, McIlroy shot a one-under par 69 in the first round, placing him inside the top 10. Scheffler carded a two-over par 72, putting him further behind. Both remain contenders for the £3.4 million top prize at Shinnecock Hills.
