Wayne Gretzky, the Canadian-born ice hockey legend, has amassed a staggering net worth of $250 million as of 2024. At 63 years old, Gretzky remains one of the most influential figures in hockey history, having dominated the sport throughout his 21-year NHL career. But how did he build such a vast fortune? Let’s delve into his career earnings, achievements, business ventures, and personal life to understand his enduring legacy.
How Did Wayne Gretzky Begin His Hockey Career?
Wayne Douglas Gretzky was born on January 26, 1961, in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. From a young age, he displayed exceptional talent in ice hockey. By the age of six, he was already playing against ten-year-olds and excelling beyond expectations. His father, Walter Gretzky, built a backyard rink where Wayne honed his skills, setting the foundation for his future success.
At just 16 years old, Gretzky played in the Ontario Major Junior Hockey League (OMJHL) for the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, where he first wore his iconic #99 jersey. In 1978, at age 17, he signed with the World Hockey Association (WHA) before transitioning to the NHL when the league merged.
What Were Wayne Gretzky’s NHL Career Highlights?
Gretzky’s professional hockey career spanned 21 years, during which he played for four NHL teams:
- Edmonton Oilers (1979–1988): Led the team to four Stanley Cup victories.
- Los Angeles Kings (1988–1996): Boosted the popularity of hockey in California.
- St. Louis Blues (1996): Brief but impactful stint.
- New York Rangers (1996–1999): Played his final seasons before retirement.
Gretzky broke multiple records, including:
- Most career points in NHL history.
- The only player to score over 200 points in a season—achieving this feat four times.
- Nine-time Hart Trophy (MVP) winner.
- Ten-time Art Ross Trophy (most points) winner.
- Two-time Conn Smythe Trophy (playoff MVP) winner.
His incredible skill earned him the nickname “The Great One,” and upon retirement in 1999, he held 61 NHL records. His No. 99 jersey was retired league-wide—a first in NHL history.
How Much Did Wayne Gretzky Earn During His Career?
During his NHL career, Gretzky earned approximately $46 million in salary. His endorsement deals brought in an additional $50 million, making his total earnings around $150 million when adjusted for inflation.
Some of his biggest endorsement deals included:
- Coca-Cola
- Domino’s Pizza
- Sharp Electronics
- Upper Deck trading cards
What Are Wayne Gretzky’s Major Business Ventures?
Since retiring, Gretzky has built a lucrative business empire through investments, sports ownership, and entrepreneurial ventures. Some of his most successful business endeavors include:
- Sports Team Ownership:
- Owned the Hull Olympiques (1985–1992), selling it for a significant profit.
- Co-owned the Toronto Argonauts (1991–1994).
- Held a 10% stake in the Phoenix Coyotes and later served as their head coach (2005–2009).
- Partnered with Oilers Entertainment Group as vice-chairman in 2016.
- Wine and Distillery Business:
- Founded Wayne Gretzky Estates in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, in partnership with Andrew Peller Ltd.
- The business produces high-quality wines, whiskey, and spirits.
- Restaurants:
- Opened No. 99 Gretzky’s Wine & Whiskey at Edmonton International Airport (2016).
- Launched Studio 99 at Rogers Place in Edmonton (2018).
- Other Investments:
- Partnered with sports equipment manufacturer First Team Sports.
- Invested in Worldwide Roller Hockey, Inc.
- Entered the health and wellness market with Wayne Gretzky CBD Gummies (2023).
What Are Wayne Gretzky’s Most Notable Real Estate Holdings?
Gretzky has made strategic real estate investments over the years, including luxury properties in California and Florida:
- Beverly Hills Estate (1980s):
- Purchased a mansion in Beverly Park, later selling it for a profit.
- Thousand Oaks, California (2007–2014, Reacquired in 2018):
- Custom-built a 10,815-square-foot mansion in Sherwood Country Club.
- Sold it in 2014 for $18.5 million but repurchased it in 2018 for $13.5 million.
- Listed the estate for sale in 2020 for $22.9 million.
- North Palm Beach, Florida (2022):
- Purchased a home from son-in-law Dustin Johnson for $4.5 million.
What Is Wayne Gretzky’s Personal Life Like?
Gretzky met actress Janet Jones while serving as a judge on the TV show “Dance Fever.” They got engaged in 1988 and had a lavish wedding, dubbed “The Royal Wedding” by the Canadian media. The couple has five children:
- Paulina Gretzky (married golfer Dustin Johnson in 2022, has two children).
- Trevor Gretzky (former minor league baseball player).
- Three other children who maintain private lives.
How Has Wayne Gretzky’s Legacy Impacted Hockey?
Gretzky’s influence extends far beyond his playing days. His impact includes:
- Elevating the NHL’s popularity, especially in non-traditional hockey markets.
- Serving as a mentor and advisor for future generations of players.
- Continuing contributions through coaching and front-office roles.
- Developing businesses that celebrate and promote the sport.
Conclusion
Wayne Gretzky’s journey from a backyard rink in Ontario to becoming one of the richest and most influential hockey players in history is nothing short of remarkable. With a net worth of $250 million, multiple successful business ventures, and a permanent legacy in the sport, “The Great One” continues to be a powerhouse in the sports and business worlds. His story is a testament to hard work, vision, and the ability to evolve beyond the game he mastered.
