By Ibrahim B. Muhammed
Roger Federer may have retired from professional tennis in 2022, but his business moves since then have been nothing short of grand slam material. The Swiss maestro, known for his grace, precision, and class on the court, is now equally admired for his calculated and elegant transition into a full-fledged business mogul. As of 2024, Federer’s net worth is estimated at over $1 billion, making him not only one of the richest athletes in the world but also one of the most strategic investors in sports history.
Tennis Career that Funded the Brand
Over a 24-year career, Federer won 20 Grand Slam titles, held the No. 1 ATP ranking for 310 weeks, and became one of the most recognisable names in global sports. Though his career prize money totalled $130 million, that figure is dwarfed by his off-court earnings, which have consistently surpassed $90–100 million annually, even after retirement.
Master of Endorsements
Federer’s financial rise is rooted in long-term, high-value endorsement deals. He carefully aligned with global brands that fit his clean, elite image. His deals include: Rolex, Credit Suisse, Mercedes-Benz, Wilson, Moët & Chandon, and Barilla
His endorsement income from 2023 alone was over $95 million, making him the highest-paid retired athlete in the world.
On Running: Federer’s Billion-Dollar Ace
Federer’s most celebrated investment is his 2019 stake in Swiss sneaker brand On Running. He joined as a co-entrepreneur and invested a reported $54 million before the company’s IPO in 2021. When On Running went public, its valuation skyrocketed, and Federer’s stake was estimated to be worth over $300 million.
He also co-developed the Roger Pro, a tennis-inspired lifestyle shoe, further proving his influence and brand power in product development.
Business Beyond Endorsements
Federer is more than just a brand ambassador. He’s shown strategic insight in choosing equity deals over short-term cash grabs. His business interests include:
Federer Ventures: A private investment vehicle managing his deals, real estate, and stakes.
Event & Exhibition Management: He remains involved in organising tennis exhibitions and ambassador roles for tournaments globally.
RF Foundation: While philanthropic, it’s also a reflection of Federer’s long-term legacy planning, with investments in education and community development across Southern Africa and Switzerland.
Real Estate & Global Assets
Federer owns luxury properties in Switzerland, Dubai, and the Italian countryside, with his real estate assets valued at over $100 million. He is known to live a low-key, private life, but his financial footprint is global and deliberate.
Legacy of Business Class
Roger Federer represents a gold standard in post-career athlete investment. With humility, vision, and long-term thinking, he has built a portfolio that will outlast his athletic prime. He’s not just the gentleman of tennis — he’s the billion-dollar blueprint for modern athletes looking to secure generational wealth.
Federer once said, “When you’re passionate about something, you find a way to make it last.” He’s doing exactly that — this time, in the boardroom.