As of 2025, Conor McGregor remains one of Ireland’s richest athletes, with an estimated net worth of $200 million. Slowly, his time at the top of the money-maker list ends, and golf sensation Rory McIlroy is set to take the lead. The most surprising factor is that McIlroy won’t just surpass the UFC icon as a millionaire but as a billionaire soon.
Rory McIlroy’s Historic Earnings Surge After US Masters Triumph
Rory McIlroy is about to make history. After his recent US Masters win, he’s now set to overtake Conor McGregor as Ireland’s richest athlete. His prize money and massive sponsorship deals are pushing him closer to becoming the country’s first billionaire in sports.
Currently, McIlroy climbs higher while McGregor stays stuck on pause. Since breaking his leg in 2021, he hasn’t returned to the UFC octagon. That long break gave McIlroy the chance to close the gap and even pull ahead in earnings.
Unlike McGregor, who relies heavily on fight purses and brands like Proper No. Twelve whiskey, McIlroy earns steadily from golf, endorsements, and smart investments. His consistent income is helping him build wealth faster.
Breaking- Rory McIlroy wins masters and claims his first ever green jacket
McIlroy fended off Justin Rose at the Augusta National to become the sixth ever man to win all four mens major championships, and the grand slam
The Irishman will join the club of the ultra elite pack… pic.twitter.com/wA8NeZZ4TF
— SnDMedia (@SnDMediaNews) April 13, 2025
Some reports say that McIlroy has already passed $700 million in career earnings. If he keeps winning and growing his fortune, he could hit the billion-dollar mark soon. McGregor may not be able to catch up at this rate unless he makes a spectacular UFC comeback.
Can Conor McGregor Become a Billionaire If He Enters Politics?
Conor McGregor has recently shared his thoughts on politics, showing strong opinions on Ireland’s leadership, immigration, and government spending. He even hinted at running for president but admitted that getting the necessary nominations would be tough due to Ireland’s election rules.
Conor McGregor reveals why HE’S NOT allowed to run for President of Ireland
“It’s this cozy clique where you have to bend the knee to even have a shot. There’s stipulations you need 4 county counsels controlled by the govt or 20 nominations which are all party affiliates” pic.twitter.com/DnY1yx6Gvn
— FULL SEND MMA (@full_send_mma) April 18, 2025
However, it’s unlikely that McGregor will reach billionaire status just by entering politics. Political careers usually don’t bring in the same kind of money as sports, business, or endorsements. And since this is about Ireland, we can’t expect the kind of billion-dollar earnings that might be possible in countries like the U.S. or Canada.