South Africa’s sports landscape is characterized not only by exceptional talent but also by remarkable financial success. The nation’s leading athletes have thrived both in their respective sports and in building significant wealth through diverse ventures, endorsements, and strategic investments. This compilation of the top 10 wealthiest South African athletes in 2024 highlights individuals who have achieved the highest athletic and financial success levels, showcasing the varied talent and business savvy within the country’s sports community.
1. Ernie Els (Golf)
Ernie Els, known as “The Big Easy” due to his fluid golf swing and imposing stature, is one of South Africa’s most accomplished and renowned professional golfers. Born on October 17, 1969, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Els turned professional in 1989 and quickly established himself on the international golf scene.
Achievements
Els has won four major championships, including two U.S. Opens (1994, 1997) and two Open Championships (2002, 2012). With over 70 career victories, he has been a consistent force on both the PGA and European Tours. In 2011, Els was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the sport. He has also received numerous awards and accolades, including the European Tour Order of Merit and multiple Sunshine Tour Order of Merit titles. Els has represented South Africa in numerous international competitions, including the Presidents Cup, and is widely respected both for his sportsmanship and his contributions to the game.
Business Ventures
Beyond his playing career, Els has made a significant mark in the business world, particularly in golf course design, with his company, Ernie Els Design, creating prestigious courses worldwide. He is also involved in the wine industry with Ernie Els Wines, a well-regarded winery in Stellenbosch, South Africa. Through the Els for Autism Foundation, which he co-founded after his son was diagnosed with autism, Els has been a strong advocate for autism research and education.
Net Worth
Ernie Els’s net worth is estimated to be around $85 million as of 2024, making him one of the wealthiest athletes in South Africa. His wealth comes from his successful golf career, endorsements, and diverse business interests, solidifying his legacy both on and off the course.
2. Charl Schwartzel (Golf)
Charl Schwartzel is a prominent South African professional golfer, best known for his exceptional skills and calm demeanor on the course. Born on August 31, 1984, in Johannesburg, Schwartzel comes from a golfing family, with his father, George Schwartzel, being a former professional golfer who played a significant role in shaping Charl’s career.
Achievements
Schwartzel’s most significant achievement came in 2011 when he won the Masters Tournament, one of golf’s most prestigious events. He clinched the title with a remarkable final round, birdieing the last four holes to secure his first major championship. Throughout his career, Schwartzel has secured multiple victories on both the European Tour and the PGA Tour, solidifying his reputation as one of South Africa’s top golfers. In addition to his international success, Schwartzel has been a dominant force on the Sunshine Tour, winning several titles and consistently ranking among the top players.
Business Ventures
Schwartzel has shown an interest in golf course design, a common venture for top golfers. He has collaborated on various projects, lending his expertise to develop world-class courses. Like many elite athletes, Schwartzel has benefited from lucrative endorsement deals with major brands in the sports industry, contributing significantly to his income.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Charl Schwartzel’s net worth is estimated to be around $45 million. His wealth primarily stems from his success on the golf course, endorsements, and business ventures related to golf. Schwartzel continues to be a respected figure in the sport, known for his consistent performance and dedication to the game.
3.Steven Pienaar (Soccer)
Steven Pienaar is a retired South African professional footballer celebrated for his versatility and skill on the field. Born on March 17, 1982, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Pienaar has had a distinguished career both domestically and internationally. Pienaar began his football career at Ajax Cape Town before moving to Ajax Amsterdam in 2001, where he gained prominence as a talented midfielder. He was an integral part of South Africa’s national team, earning over 60 caps and representing the country in major tournaments, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosted by South Africa.
Achievements
Pienaar’s career highlights include stints with major European clubs such as Borussia Dortmund, Everton, Tottenham Hotspur, and Sunderland. Notably, he helped Everton reach the FA Cup final in 2009 and played a key role in Tottenham Hotspur’s successful 2009-2010 season. In addition to his European successes, Pienaar contributed significantly to South African football, both as a player and later as an ambassador for the sport.
Business Ventures
Pienaar has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and football development projects, including establishing a football academy aimed at nurturing young talent in South Africa. He has also engaged in various endorsement deals and business investments, leveraging his profile and connections in the football world.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Steven Pienaar’s net worth is estimated to be around $35 million. His wealth is attributed to his successful football career, endorsement deals, and his ongoing involvement in football-related business ventures.
4. AB de Villiers (Cricket)
AB de Villiers is a celebrated South African cricketer, renowned for his explosive batting and exceptional versatility. Born on February 17, 1984, in Pretoria, South Africa, de Villiers has made a significant impact on the cricketing world both domestically and internationally. De Villiers began his cricketing journey in school and collegiate cricket before making his professional debut for the South African national team in 2004. His early promise was quickly recognized, leading to his rapid rise in international cricket. Known for his innovative and aggressive batting style, de Villiers has been a key player for South Africa across all formats of the game. He retired from international cricket in 2018 but continues to play in domestic leagues and T20 franchises.
Achievements
De Villiers is renowned for setting numerous records, including the fastest century in ODIs, which he scored off just 31 balls in 2015. His remarkable ability to score quickly and adapt to different conditions has earned him accolades globally. He captained the South African national team in various formats, leading with both skill and strategic acumen. His leadership was instrumental in guiding South Africa through several significant tournaments. De Villiers has received multiple awards and honors, including the ICC ODI Player of the Year and South African Cricketer of the Year.
Business Ventures
De Villiers has established the AB de Villiers Cricket Academy, focusing on developing young talent and nurturing future cricket stars. He has secured lucrative endorsement deals with major brands and has invested in various business ventures, leveraging his cricketing fame and success.
Net Worth:
As of 2024, AB de Villiers’ net worth is estimated to be around $30 million. His wealth is derived from his successful cricket career, endorsement deals, and business ventures, including his academy and various investments. De Villiers continues to be a prominent figure in the cricketing world and remains active in promoting and developing the sport.
5. Francois Pienaar (Rugby)
Francois Pienaar is a prominent South African rugby union player, best known for his leadership and contributions to the sport. Born on October 14, 1967, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Pienaar is celebrated for his pivotal role in South African rugby history. Pienaar’s rugby career began at an early age, and he quickly made a name for himself with his exceptional skills and leadership qualities. He played for the University of the Witwatersrand before joining the professional rugby scene. Pienaar gained national prominence as the captain of the South African national rugby team, the Springboks. He led the team to victory in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, held in South Africa, a historic achievement that earned him international acclaim.
Achievements:
Pienaar is best known for leading South Africa to victory in the 1995 Rugby World Cup. His leadership was instrumental in uniting a post-apartheid nation and achieving a significant triumph on home soil. He also had a successful career with the Transvaal team (now known as the Golden Lions), winning several domestic titles and earning accolades for his performance on the field. Pienaar has received numerous awards, including the prestigious South African Sportsman of the Year and the Order of Ikhamanga for his contributions to sport and nation-building.
Business Ventures:
After retiring from professional rugby, Pienaar transitioned into various business and corporate roles. He has worked as a motivational speaker, consultant, and sports commentator. Pienaar has been involved in endorsement deals and has invested in various ventures, leveraging his rugby legacy and public profile.
Net Worth:
As of 2024, Francois Pienaar’s net worth is estimated to be around $25 million. His wealth is derived from his successful rugby career, business endeavors, and various investments. Pienaar continues to be an influential figure in South African rugby and remains active in promoting the sport and contributing to various philanthropic efforts.
6. Benni McCarthy (Soccer)
Benni McCarthy is a celebrated South African former professional footballer and current football coach. Born on November 12, 1977, in Cape Town, South Africa, McCarthy is known for his prolific career as a striker and his contributions to both South African and international football. McCarthy began his football career in South Africa, playing for local clubs such as Cape Town Spurs. His talent quickly gained attention, leading to a move to Europe where he would make a significant impact. He played for several top European clubs, including Celta Vigo (Spain), Porto (Portugal), and Blackburn Rovers (England). McCarthy was particularly successful during his time at FC Porto, where he won numerous domestic and international titles.
Achievements
McCarthy’s tenure at FC Porto was marked by substantial success, including winning the UEFA Champions League in 2004. He was Porto’s top scorer in the competition that season, making a notable contribution to their triumph. Over his career, McCarthy won multiple domestic league titles and cups with his clubs. He was also a key player for the South African national team, earning over 70 caps and scoring important goals. He has been recognized for his contributions to football with awards such as the South African Footballer of the Year and inclusion in various Team of the Year selections.
Business Ventures
After retiring from professional football, McCarthy transitioned into coaching. He has worked as an assistant coach and head coach for various teams, including a successful stint with AmaZulu FC in South Africa. McCarthy has been involved in football punditry and media work, leveraging his football expertise and experience. He also has endorsement deals and has been involved in various promotional activities.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Benni McCarthy’s net worth is estimated to be around $23 million. His wealth is derived from his successful football career, coaching roles, media work, and various endorsements. McCarthy remains an influential figure in South African football, both as a coach and a prominent public figure.
7. Cameron van der Burgh (Swimming)
Cameron van der Burgh is a distinguished South African swimmer known for his exceptional achievements in breaststroke events. Born on May 6, 1988, in Pretoria, South Africa, van der Burgh has made a significant mark in the world of competitive swimming. Van der Burgh started swimming at a young age and quickly emerged as a promising talent in South Africa. His rigorous training and dedication led him to achieve national and international recognition. He studied at the University of Pretoria, where he balanced his academic pursuits with his swimming career.
Achievements
Van der Burgh gained international fame for his performance at the 2012 London Olympics, where he won the gold medal in the 100m breaststroke. He also secured a bronze medal in the 200m breaststroke at the same games. He has excelled at the FINA World Championships, winning multiple gold medals in both the 50m and 100m breaststroke events. His performances have consistently placed him among the top breaststroke swimmers in the world. Van der Burgh has also achieved success at the Commonwealth Games, earning gold medals and further establishing his reputation as one of the leading swimmers in his field.
Business Ventures
After retiring from competitive swimming, van der Burgh has been involved in various ventures, including sports commentary and motivational speaking. He has also engaged in philanthropic efforts, supporting initiatives related to sports development and youth empowerment. He has secured endorsement deals with sports brands and companies, leveraging his athletic achievements and public profile.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Cameron van der Burgh’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. His wealth is derived from his successful swimming career, endorsement deals, and his involvement in sports-related ventures. Van der Burgh remains an influential figure in South African sports, known for his contributions to swimming and his ongoing efforts to inspire the next generation of athletes.
8. Kagiso Rabada (Cricket)
Kagiso Rabada is a prominent South African cricketer renowned for his exceptional fast bowling skills. Born on May 25, 1995, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Rabada has quickly risen to prominence in international cricket with his impressive performances. Rabada grew up in Johannesburg and developed a passion for cricket at a young age. He attended St. Stithians College, where he honed his cricketing skills. His talent was evident early on, and he was soon recognized as one of South Africa’s most promising young bowlers. He began his professional career with the Lions in South African domestic cricket, where he quickly made a name for himself as a fast bowler with a potent combination of pace and swing.
Achievements
Rabada made his international debut for South Africa in 2014 and has since become a key player for the national team. He has achieved significant milestones, including multiple five-wicket hauls in Test matches and numerous wickets across all formats of the game. Rabada has set several records, including being the fastest South African bowler to reach 100 Test wickets. He has received accolades such as the ICC Emerging Player of the Year and has been named the South African Cricketer of the Year. He has also pl ayed in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where his performances with the Delhi Capitals have further solidified his reputation as one of the top fast bowlers in world cricket.
Business Ventures
Rabada has secured endorsement deals with various sports brands and companies, capitalizing on his cricketing success. He is also involved in philanthropic activities, particularly those aimed at supporting young cricketers and community development.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Kagiso Rabada’s net worth is estimated to be around $18 million. His wealth comes from his successful international cricket career, endorsements, and participation in global T20 leagues like the IPL. Rabada remains a key figure in South African cricket and continues to be one of the leading fast bowlers in international cricket.
9. Oscar Pistorius (Athletics)
Oscar Pistorius is a South African former sprinter and Paralympic champion known for his remarkable achievements in athletics as well as his controversial legal issues. Born on November 22, 1986, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Pistorius was a groundbreaking athlete who competed in both Paralympic and Olympic events. Pistorius was born without fibulas in both legs and had his legs amputated below the knee when he was 11 months old. Despite his disability, he excelled in sports from a young age and used prosthetic limbs to pursue athletics. He attended the Pretoria Boys High School and later enrolled at the University of the Witwatersrand, where he studied law.
Achievements
Pistorius gained international fame for his achievements in the Paralympics. He won multiple gold medals in the 100m, 200m, and 400m events at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics and the 2012 London Paralympics. He was known as the “Blade Runner” due to his carbon-fiber prosthetic legs. In 2012, Pistorius made history by becoming the first double-amputee to compete in the Olympics. He ran in the 400m and 4x400m relay events at the London Olympics, demonstrating his exceptional talent and determination.
Legal Issues
Pistorius’s career was overshadowed by legal troubles. In February 2013, he was involved in a high-profile incident in which he shot and killed his girlfriend, Reeva Steenkamp. He was convicted of culpable homicide in 2014, which was later upgraded to murder. In 2017, he was sentenced to 13 years and five months in prison after a successful appeal by the prosecution.
Business Ventures
Before his legal issues, Pistorius had several endorsement deals with major brands, including Nike and Oakley. His commercial ventures were linked to his status as a prominent athlete.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Oscar Pistorius’s net worth is estimated to be significantly diminished from its peak. At his height, he was worth around $17 million, but his financial situation has been affected by legal costs and imprisonment. His once-prominent career in athletics and endorsements has been overshadowed by his criminal conviction, leading to a complex legacy both in sports and in the public eye.
10. Percy Tau (Soccer)
Percy Tau is a South African professional footballer known for his skillful play as an attacking midfielder. Born on May 13, 1994, in Soweto, Johannesburg, Tau has made significant strides in both South African and international football. Tau grew up in Soweto, a township in Johannesburg, where he developed an early passion for football. He attended the Phokeng High School and later joined the Mamelodi Sundowns academy, where his talent was nurtured. He began his professional career with Mamelodi Sundowns, where he made a name for himself with his exceptional performances in both domestic and continental competitions.
Achievements
Tau achieved significant success with Mamelodi Sundowns, winning multiple South African Premier Division titles and the CAF Champions League in 2016. His performances earned him numerous individual awards, including the South African Player of the Year. Tau’s talent earned him a move to Europe, where he played for clubs such as Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League. He has also had loan spells with various clubs, including Club Brugge in Belgium, where he continued to impress with his performances. Tau has been a key player for the South African national team, contributing significantly to their campaigns in various international tournaments.
Business Ventures
While primarily known for his football career, Tau has secured endorsement deals with sports brands and companies. His commercial activities include collaborations with brands that recognize his status as a prominent athlete.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Percy Tau’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million. His wealth is derived from his successful football career, endorsements, and contracts with various football clubs. Tau remains one of South Africa’s most talented and influential footballers, continuing to make an impact both on and off the field.
