Björn Borg, a name that reverberates through the history of tennis, is renowned for his unmatched achievements on the court and his successful ventures beyond the sport. As of 2025, Borg’s net worth is estimated to be $80 million, a reflection of his iconic career in tennis, his business ventures, and his long-lasting impact on the sport. Born on June 6, 1956, in Stockholm, Sweden, Borg is now 68 years old and continues to be recognized as one of the greatest tennis players to ever grace the court.
Early Life and Tennis Beginnings
Björn Rune Borg’s journey into tennis began in the suburbs of Stockholm, where he grew up as an only child. His father, Rune, introduced him to tennis by gifting him a racket won in a table tennis competition. From a young age, Borg displayed a natural talent for the sport, and his athleticism was evident. By the time he was 13, Borg was already defeating the best under-18 players in Sweden, which set him on a trajectory toward professional tennis.
Borg’s early years were marked by an intense work ethic and an unwavering commitment to fitness. His physical prowess, combined with his distinctive two-handed backhand, allowed him to compete with the best. His teenage years were also successful on the international stage—Borg represented Sweden in the 1972 Davis Cup, winning his debut singles match, and quickly made a name for himself in junior competitions.
Professional Career and Tennis Dominance
Borg turned professional in 1973, and by 1974, he had won his first career singles title at the New Zealand Open, marking the beginning of an illustrious career. However, it was at the French Open in 1974, when Borg won his first Grand Slam title at just 18 years old, that the tennis world took notice. He became the youngest-ever male champion at the French Open at the time.
Borg’s dominance on the court continued throughout the 1970s and early 1980s, with six French Open titles and five consecutive Wimbledon championships. His rivalry with John McEnroe, which reached its zenith in the 1980 Wimbledon final, is often cited as one of the most memorable moments in tennis history. That epic five-set match, which Borg won, was immortalized in the 2017 HBO movie Borg vs. McEnroe.
Career Earnings and Endorsements
Björn Borg was not only one of the most successful tennis players of his era but also one of the highest-earning athletes of his time. He was the first tennis player to earn more than $1 million in a single year, a feat he achieved in 1979—equivalent to roughly $4 million in today’s dollars. Throughout his career, Borg earned a total of $3.7 million in tournament earnings, which, when adjusted for inflation, is closer to $20 million.
Beyond his winnings, Borg also enjoyed lucrative endorsement deals with major brands. In 1977, he earned $425,000 from endorsement deals alone. Some of his high-profile endorsements included:
- FILA: $200,000
- Bancroft rackets: $100,000
- Tretorn shoes: $50,000
- Scandinavian air: $25,000
- Tuborg beer: $50,000
These partnerships contributed significantly to his wealth and further cemented his status as one of the most marketable athletes of his time.
Fashion Brand and Business Ventures
Borg’s influence went far beyond the tennis court, and in 1989, he launched his own fashion brand, Björn Borg. The brand has since become a staple, particularly in Sweden, where it remains highly popular in the undergarment market. Borg’s business acumen was evident in the success of the brand, and in 2006, he sold the lifetime rights to his name to World Brand Management for $18 million.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Borg’s playing style was characterized by his aggressive yet calm demeanor on the court. His fitness, mental fortitude, and consistency allowed him to dominate tennis during his peak years. He won a total of 11 Grand Slam singles titles, including six French Open titles and five consecutive Wimbledon titles. Borg’s 1980 Wimbledon victory, where he defeated John McEnroe in a five-set final, remains one of the sport’s most iconic moments.
He also boasts a remarkable career win streak at the French Open, a record that only Rafael Nadal has surpassed. Borg’s last Grand Slam title came in 1981 at the French Open, marking the end of an era. However, he remained a dominant force in tennis, and his style of play has influenced many of today’s top players.
At just 26 years old, Borg shocked the tennis world by announcing his retirement in 1983. Many speculated that the pressure of his long career and the physical toll of the sport contributed to his decision to step away at the peak of his powers. Despite a brief comeback attempt in 1991-1993, Borg never regained his previous form, and his legacy as one of tennis’s greats remains firmly intact.
Personal Life
Borg’s personal life has been just as eventful as his tennis career. He has been married three times. His first marriage was to Romanian tennis player Mariana Simionescu in 1980, but the two divorced in 1984. He later married Italian singer Loredana Bertè in 1989, though this marriage also ended in divorce in 1993. In 2002, Borg married his third wife, Patricia Ostfeld, with whom he has a son, Leo, born in 2003.
Borg has also been involved in various charitable endeavors and remains a respected figure in Swedish sports culture. He was inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1987 and was named Sweden’s top sportsperson of all time by Dagens Nyheter, a Swedish newspaper.
Real Estate and Lifestyle
Borg has always maintained an air of exclusivity, living in luxurious properties. In the 1980s, he owned an oceanfront estate in Sands Point, New York. For many years, Borg has split his time between a penthouse in Monaco and a waterfront estate in Värmdö, Sweden. His lifestyle reflects the elegance and grace that he exhibited throughout his professional career.
