World’s 20 Richest People Revealed (9 of 11)

5. Michael Jordan: $2.6 billion

Michael Jordan, the basketball legend turned business mogul, is one of the wealthiest athletes in history. Renowned for his unparalleled skills on the court, Jordan transcended sports to become a global brand icon. His partnership with Nike birthed the iconic Air Jordan sneakers, fueling his immense wealth. Beyond basketball, Jordan’s savvy investments in the Charlotte Hornets and endorsement deals further bolstered his fortune. With a net worth in the billions, he continues to inspire two decades after his third and final retirement.

Bonus Fact: Jordan was eager to sign an endorsement deal with Adidas, whose shoes he wore while playing in college, but the company deemed him too “short” to be marketable.

4. Oprah Winfrey: $3.5 billion

Rising from poverty to become a global icon, Oprah Winfrey is a titan of media. Her long-running talk show captivated audiences for decades, offering heartfelt conversations and life-changing giveaways. She’s a shrewd businesswoman, building an empire that includes OWN, a production company, and philanthropy that empowers millions through her charitable initiatives and advocacy for education and wellness.

Bonus Fact: Oprah was once fired as the news anchor for Baltimore’s CBS affiliate for being “too emotional” on-air—a quality that would later become her trademark appeal.