At the peak of his career, a sportsperson can earn several million dollars. But what about the person who sells sports accessories? How much do you think that an individual earns?
Well, starting his career doing the same (selling sports items), Mike Ashley has become a multi-billionaire now and is one of the richest people in the UK at the moment.
Never settling down, he now owns several businesses, consisting of multiple franchises and even a soccer club. Let's dig deep to learn about Mike's personal and professional life, including the details of his wife, net worth, house, and more.
Expensive Divorce From Wife, Now Together Again?
Previously a married man, Mike Ashley, tied the marital knot with a Swedish woman named Linda Jerlmyr in 1988.
From the marriage, the couple became parents to three children: two daughters named Anna & Matilda, and a son named Oliver. All of the three are now grown up and excel in their respective fields. Oliver works as a DJ, Anna is a property developer, and Matilda owns a cosmetic brand.
Even with a family of five, Mike and Linda couldn't save their marriage from crumbling as they separated in 2002 and later got divorced in 2003.
A settlement was made after the Sports Direct owner paid a sum of £50 million as spousal support to his then-wife. After the divorce, Linda went on to date another businessman named Simon Brodin and even had a son with him.
However, in 2014, rumors surfaced that Mike was back together with his ex-wife Linda after the two were seen at a restaurant.
Further, Linda also accompanied Mike in 2016 when he faced the MPs during an investigation regarding the working conditions at the Sports Direct's warehouses.
Mike Ashley and ex-wife Linda Jerlmyr as seen together in 2016 (©: DailyMail)
While the two have neither confirmed nor denied any talks of their relationship, the circumstances do seem like Mike and Linda are on their way to rekindle their romance.
Sports Direct Founder's Net Worth, Businesses
Mike Ashley is a living example of entrepreneurship brilliance and success. Considered the 15th wealthiest person in the UK, he has crossed a long way to establish his name as a business magnate.
Initially starting as a squash player, he soon turned to trade sports accessories and opened up a sports shop in 1982. Within a few years, the shop had turned into a brand with 100 branches over the UK called Sports Direct.
After making a name in the business, Mike started buying franchises, and in the process, purchased several businesses- including Lillywhites, Lonsdale, Carlton, Slazenger, Everlast Worldwide, Firetrap, House of Fraser, Van Mildert, and more.
Apart from Sports Direct and several other businesses, Mike also owns a football/soccer club, Newcastle United. He had bought the team in 2007, paying a sum of £135 million.
With the help of his several businesses and some witty investments, Mike secured his status as a billionaire. As of now, he enjoys a net worth of $4.2 billion (£3.21 billion).
Luxurious Lifestyle, House
As a billionaire, Mike Ashley enjoys all the luxuries money can buy. He owns a £5 million-worth helicopter, which is for the sole purpose of commuting him from home to work and vice versa.
Further, he owns a multi-million worth house in the London Borough of Barnet, which is build over several acres of land. The luxury mansion is truly an example of Mike's luxurious lifestyle and his prosperity.