SYDNEY — Australian athletes continue to dominate financially on the global stage, with several earning tens of millions annually through lucrative contracts in the NBA, NFL, Formula 1 and golf. As of early 2026, rankings of the wealthiest Australian sports stars highlight a shift toward overseas leagues, where massive salaries and endorsements far outpace domestic competitions like the AFL, NRL or cricket.

Recent estimates from publications such as Esquire Australia, Sporting News and industry reports place NBA guard Josh Giddey at the top, followed closely by NFL offensive tackle Jordan Mailata and emerging talents in basketball and motorsport. These figures reflect a combination of base salaries, bonuses, endorsements and career earnings, with net worths often boosted by smart investments off the field.

Josh Giddey
Josh Giddey
  1. Josh Giddey (Basketball, Chicago Bulls) — Estimated net worth: $80-100 million (annual earnings around AU$38 million). The 23-year-old point guard signed a four-year, US$100 million extension in 2025 after a breakout season with the Bulls. His rise from Adelaide to NBA stardom includes major endorsement deals with brands like Nike and Gatorade. Giddey edges out predecessors like Ben Simmons, whose massive contract wound down, making him Australia's highest-earning active athlete in early 2026.
  2. Jordan Mailata (American Football, Philadelphia Eagles) — Estimated net worth: $60-80 million (annual earnings around AU$33 million). The former rugby league prospect from Sydney has solidified his status as one of the NFL's premier left tackles. His three-year, US$66 million extension keeps him among the league's top-paid linemen. Mailata's journey from South Sydney Rabbitohs to Super Bowl contender exemplifies how Australians thrive in American sports.
  3. Dyson Daniels (Basketball, Atlanta Hawks) — Estimated net worth: $50-70 million (annual earnings around AU$38 million). The defensive standout earned All-Defense honors and finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2025. His rapid ascent after a trade from New Orleans has made him one of the league's most improved players and a key earner for Australian basketball exports.
  4. Oscar Piastri (Formula 1, McLaren) — Estimated net worth: $70-90 million (annual earnings around AU$41 million in recent reports). The young driver leads the F1 championship push with McLaren, securing victories and helping clinch constructors' honors. His contract through 2028 includes a base salary plus performance bonuses, positioning him as Australia's top motorsport earner since Daniel Ricciardo's peak.
  5. Josh Green (Basketball, Dallas Mavericks) — Estimated net worth: $40-60 million (annual earnings in the $20 million range). The versatile wing has become a reliable starter, contributing to Dallas' playoff runs. His salary growth and off-court ventures add to his growing fortune.
  6. Matisse Thybulle (Basketball) — Estimated net worth: $35-50 million. Known for elite defense, the former Portland Trail Blazer and current contributor maintains strong earnings through NBA contracts and sponsorships.
  7. Marc Leishman (Golf) — Estimated net worth: $30-45 million. The veteran golfer continues to cash in on LIV Golf and legacy PGA Tour earnings, with consistent top finishes boosting his bank account.
  8. Jason Day (Golf) — Estimated net worth: $50-70 million cumulative. The former world No. 1 has seen earnings rebound with strong performances, including major contention and endorsement income from Rolex and others.
  9. Cameron Smith (Golf) — Estimated net worth: $40-60 million. The LIV Golf star and former Open champion maintains high earnings through tournaments and sponsorships.
  10. Liam Hendriks (Baseball) — Estimated net worth: $30-45 million. The relief pitcher, despite injury setbacks, built wealth through MLB contracts and remains a notable name in Australian sports finance.

Golf remains a strong contributor, with veterans like Day, Smith and Leishman benefiting from global tours and endorsements. F1's Piastri represents a new wave in high-stakes motorsport, where Australian drivers have historically excelled financially.

Women's sports feature prominently lower down lists, with soccer star Sam Kerr estimated at around $3-4 million annually from Chelsea and endorsements, and snowboarder Scotty James earning $3 million yearly through sponsorships like Red Bull amid his 2026 Winter Olympics success.

Experts attribute the disparity to salary caps in Australian leagues — AFL and NRL top out around AU$1.4-1.5 million — compared to uncapped U.S. contracts. Endorsements play a key role, with global brands favoring athletes in high-visibility sports.

As 2026 progresses, expect movement: Giddey's performance could push his value higher, while Piastri's championship pursuit might elevate him further. Mailata's consistency in the NFL ensures stability at the top.

Australia's sporting exports not only bring home medals but massive paydays, enriching individuals and showcasing the nation's athletic talent worldwide. With more young stars eyeing international paths, the list of richest Australian athletes is poised for continued evolution.