Ilona Maher is one of rugby’s richest stars with eye-watering net worth

Monday, 14 April 2025 at 09:53

byRugby Rucker

The rugby world isn’t just about bone-crunching tackles and highlight-reel tries—it’s also a stage where fortunes are built.

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From iconic players to unexpected names, here’s the ultimate countdown of rugby’s wealthiest stars.

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10. Owen Farrell – £1.46 million ($2 million)

Saracens’ General on and off the field
Owen Farrell isn’t just Saracens’ leader; he’s their financial giant too. His loyalty to the club pays off handsomely, with most of his £1.46 million net worth stemming from his Premiership dominance.

9. Maro Itoje – £1.46 million ($2 million)

England and Saracens’ towering presence
Maro Itoje matches Owen Farrell both on the pitch and in the bank. With his growing influence on and off the field, Itoje’s salary mirrors his worth to Saracens and England alike.

8. Charles Piutau – £1.85 million ($2.5 million)

A marquee signing with a marquee salary
When Charles Piutau joined Bristol Bears, it wasn’t just his skills that made headlines—it was his paycheck. Over five seasons, the former All Black became one of the highest-paid players in the sport.

7. Handré Pollard – £1.94 million ($2.7 million)

A Springbok with serious earning power
The lone South African in this list, Handré Pollard made waves when he left the Bulls for Montpellier. Now at Leicester Tigers, reports suggest Pollard’s earnings hit around R15 million per season.

6. Ilona Maher – £3 million

A trailblazer on and off the pitch
Ilona Maher’s influence goes far beyond rugby. The USA sevens star has carved out a lucrative career through sponsorships, social media, and a growing brand that makes her one of the sport’s most marketable athletes.

5. Mike Tindall – £9.98 million ($13 million)

The royal connection
Rugby royalty and actual royalty collide in Mike Tindall. A World Cup winner in 2003, Tindall’s fortunes come from a mix of his rugby career, business ventures, and media appearances. Despite a few legal hurdles, his net worth is nearing £10 million.

4. Jonny Wilkinson – £20.9 million ($29 million)

England’s golden boy turned financial giant
Jonny Wilkinson’s iconic 2003 Rugby World Cup drop goal didn’t just win a trophy—it built a brand. Now the second-richest Rugby World Cup winner, Wilkinson’s ventures in coaching, commentary, and endorsements have significantly boosted his net worth.

3. Sonny Bill Williams – £21.8 million ($30 million)

A dual-code dynamo
Sonny Bill Williams has excelled in both union and league, earning a fortune in France and through high-profile endorsements. With a net worth of £21.8 million, his career is as lucrative as it is legendary.

2. Sir Bill Gammell – £38.8 million ($50 million)

From rugby to business titan
Once a Scottish rugby player, Sir Bill Gammell transitioned into the business world, building an empire. With a net worth exceeding £38.8 million, Gammell’s success spans far beyond the pitch.

1. Simon McDowell – £39.3 million ($54 million)

From referee to chemical company mogul
Simon McDowell might not be the first name you associate with wealth in rugby, but his financial success is unparalleled. After officiating at two Rugby World Cups, McDowell’s fortune skyrocketed thanks to his chemical company, Kilwaughter. His £39.3 million net worth tops the list.