Scottie Scheffler has overtaken Rory McIlroy in the 2025/26 Forbes rich list, despite McIlroy successfully defending his Masters title. However, the American is not golf's top earner over the past 12 months.
Forbes' latest ranking of the world's wealthiest athletes covers the 12 months leading up to May 2026, a period that aligns with arguably the most successful year of Scheffler's career. The 29-year-old, who finished third at the CJ Cup Byron Nelson on Sunday, is estimated to have earned approximately £63 million ($84.6 million) over the past year, with around £40 million coming from prize money and the remaining £23 million from endorsements and other off-course income.
McIlroy's Off-Course Earnings
Two-time Masters winner McIlroy, 37, sits just behind with estimated earnings of nearly £57 million. However, the source of his income tells a different story. While Scheffler relies heavily on tournament success, McIlroy's earnings are increasingly dependent on off-course activities. The £37 million he reportedly generated away from competition over the last year represents the sixth-highest figure among all athletes in Forbes' analysis.
This highlights McIlroy's appeal as a brand ambassador for companies like Nike, Omega, and TaylorMade, positioning him for even greater financial rewards once he achieves more consistent results. Remarkably, McIlroy's two Masters titles are his only PGA Tour victories since April 2025, with his sole other professional win coming at last September's Irish Open on the DP World Tour.
Jon Rahm Tops Golf Earnings
Neither Scheffler nor McIlroy top the earnings table among golfers, however. That distinction belongs to Ryder Cup teammate Jon Rahm. The 31-year-old continues to benefit from the reported £220 million deal he signed to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf in 2024. However, the future of those payments is in doubt following reports that the Public Investment Fund (PIF) will stop bankrolling LIV after 2026.
If that happens, Rahm could drop out of sport's wealthiest list entirely in next year's update, or at least slip several places. Meanwhile, Scheffler's position above McIlroy appears secure for the foreseeable future, given the four-time PGA Tour Player of the Year remains one of the most consistent performers on the circuit.
Upcoming Showdown
The pair are set to compete again at the Memorial Tournament in Dublin, Ohio, starting June 4. The event offers a top prize of £3 million, giving McIlroy a chance to close the gap on Scheffler in the earnings race.
