Jordan Spieth Is Golf’s Next Marketing Powerhouse

In a sport where the biggest stars break through in their early thirties, Jordan Spieth won American golf’s two biggest events—the Masters and the U.S. Open—before he turned 22. So to say he got a head start on a prolific career is an understatement. By 2016, Spieth had already become a marketing powerhouse, securing lucrative endorsements with AT&T, Under Armour and Coca-Cola. (Spieth became the first Coke-endorsed golfer since the ’80s.) In the span of a few years, Spieth became the most marketable face in golf since Tiger Woods.

While endorsements are certainly prized cosigns, financially and professionally, Spieth’s ambition as an entrepreneur suggests that these agreements are just the beginning of a booming career in business. Just 25, Spieth hauled in $41 million last year alone, according to Forbes. 

WHAT’S NOW: Outside of golf earnings and his lucrative endorsements, Spieth maintains an active foundation that focuses on youth initiatives. Spieth is already well on his way to an illustrious career; if he keeps winning, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the massive marketing machines of Coke and AT&T—the latter based in Spieth's home base, Dallas—make him the most visible golf star of our generation.

WHAT’S NEXT: Spieth maintains a low profile outside of public appearances and events, but his father, Shawn Spieth, recently sold a social media data collection business. In an increasingly busy social media and sports intersection, Jordan could find opportunity within a sport that’s increasingly popular on social media. 

This piece is part of our monthlong series featuring the 30 Most Entrepreneurial Athletes. For other entries in the series, head to our 30MEA page.