Rory McIlroy Tops NI’s Young Rich List
Fresh off his landmark Masters victory, Rory McIlroy has reached a new financial milestone, topping the list as Northern Ireland’s richest young individual with a staggering £260 million fortune. According to the 2025 Sunday Times Rich List, the 36-year-old golfer added £35 million to his wealth in the last year alone — more than the £25 million increase reported the previous year.
Success On and Off the Course
McIlroy’s latest win at Augusta not only secured a $4.2 million (£3.5m) prize but also reinforced his place among golf’s elite. He became just the second player in PGA Tour history, after Tiger Woods, to surpass $100 million in career earnings. But it’s his off-course deals that have truly supercharged his net worth.
With long-standing sponsorship agreements with brands like Nike, Omega, and TaylorMade, alongside property investments in Dubai, New York, and Florida, McIlroy’s wealth portfolio is as diverse as it is impressive. He ranks 19th among the UK’s richest people under 40.
How the Rest of NI’s Wealthy Rank
Despite McIlroy’s extraordinary earnings, business tycoons still dominate the top of Northern Ireland’s rich list. Leading the pack:
- Lady Ballyedmond and Family – £922 million
The family behind Norbrook Pharmaceuticals remains number one, with an £8 million increase this year.
- Martin Naughton and Family – £825 million
Founder of Glen Dimplex, the Naughtons saw a £25 million drop but still hold second place.
- Barnett Family (Robert and William) – £647 million
Owners of W&R Barnett, involved in commodities and agribusiness. - Michael Loughran and Family (LCC Group) – £530 million
Despite a £74 million dip, they hold strong due to their presence in energy and fuel.
- Eoin McCann and Family (FP McCann) – £462 million
The biggest gainers this year with a £51 million increase in their concrete business.
- Derek Keys (Euro Auctions) – £400 million
A new entry on the list, Keys has built a global empire in heavy machinery auctions.
Changing Trends in UK Wealth
The Sunday Times notes that the overall wealth of the UK’s richest 350 has declined 3% to £772.8 billion. The number of billionaires is shrinking, and fewer wealthy foreigners are relocating to the UK. Criticism is also growing against recent tax reforms, particularly the scrapping of non-dom status.
However, the rise of self-made fortunes—spanning AI, video games, fashion, and even radiators—shows the enduring entrepreneurial spirit across the UK.
You can view the full Sunday Times Rich List at thetimes.com/sunday-times-rich-list.