Wayne Gretzky, widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, has built an impressive financial empire beyond his NHL career. As of 2025, Gretzky’s net worth is estimated to be $250 million. Born on January 26, 1961, in Brantford, Ontario, Canada, the 63-year-old hockey legend continues to thrive through business ventures, endorsements, and investments. Let’s dive into his journey, achievements, and financial success.
How Did Wayne Gretzky Start His Hockey Career?
Gretzky started playing hockey at the age of three and was competing against much older players by the time he was six. His natural talent quickly set him apart, and despite facing criticism and jealousy from other parents and players, his skills earned him a spot in Toronto’s junior leagues. His transition to professional hockey came at 17 when he signed a $1.75 million contract with the World Hockey Association’s Indianapolis Racers. Soon after, he joined the Edmonton Oilers, and when the WHA dissolved, he transitioned into the NHL.
What Were Wayne Gretzky’s Major Achievements in the NHL?
Gretzky dominated the NHL for 21 seasons, playing for the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and New York Rangers. His career was filled with record-breaking achievements, including:
- Scoring the most points in NHL history
- Being the only player to score over 200 points in a single season (which he did four times)
- Winning nine Hart Trophies as the league’s Most Valuable Player
- Securing ten Art Ross Trophies for most points in a season
- Earning two Conn Smythe Trophies as Playoff MVP
By the time he retired in 1999, Gretzky held 61 NHL records, and his iconic number 99 jersey was retired league-wide.
How Much Did Wayne Gretzky Earn During His Hockey Career?
Throughout his NHL career, Gretzky earned a total of $46 million in salary. Additionally, he secured $50 million in endorsements from major brands like Coca-Cola, Domino’s Pizza, and Sharp Corporation. When adjusted for inflation, his total earnings during his playing days equate to approximately $150 million.
What Business Ventures Has Wayne Gretzky Pursued?
Beyond hockey, Gretzky has built a successful business empire. His ventures include:
- Sports Team Ownership: He co-owned the Hull Olympiques in the 1980s and later invested in the Toronto Argonauts football team. He also had a stake in the Phoenix Coyotes.
- Sports Equipment and Roller Hockey: He invested in First Team Sports and Worldwide Roller Hockey, expanding his influence in the sports industry.
- Wayne Gretzky Estates: In 2017, he partnered with Andrew Peller Ltd. to launch a winery and distillery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.
- Restaurants: Gretzky owns No. 99 Gretzky’s Wine & Whiskey in Edmonton International Airport and Studio 99 at Rogers Place.
- CBD Industry: In 2023, he ventured into the wellness industry with Wayne Gretzky CBD Gummies.
What Is Wayne Gretzky’s Role in Hockey Post-Retirement?
Following his retirement, Gretzky stayed active in hockey through coaching and management. He was the executive director of the Canadian National Hockey Team during their gold-winning 2002 Winter Olympics campaign. He also became the head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes from 2005 to 2009 and later took a vice-chairman role at Oilers Entertainment Group in 2016.
How Has Wayne Gretzky Invested in Real Estate?
Gretzky has made several high-profile real estate transactions over the years:
- In the late 1980s, he purchased a Beverly Hills mansion and later sold it to billionaire Eric Smidt.
- In 2007, he custom-built a 10,815-square-foot mansion in Thousand Oaks, California, within the Sherwood Country Club. The property, designed by renowned architect Richard Landry, featured luxury amenities such as guest houses, a gym, a home theater, and a sunken tennis court.
- The mansion was sold to baseball player Lenny Dykstra in 2014 for $18.5 million. However, after Dykstra’s financial collapse, Gretzky re-acquired the property in 2018 for $13.5 million.
- In October 2020, he listed the estate for $22.9 million.
- In 2022, Gretzky and his wife purchased a $4.5 million property from their son-in-law, golfer Dustin Johnson, in North Palm Beach, Florida.
What Is Wayne Gretzky’s Personal Life Like?
Gretzky married actress Janet Jones in 1988, in what was dubbed “The Royal Wedding” of Canada. The couple has five children, including their daughter Paulina Gretzky, who married golfer Dustin Johnson in 2022. Their son Trevor previously pursued a minor league baseball career.
Conclusion
Wayne Gretzky’s legacy extends far beyond the ice rink. With a net worth of $250 million, he has successfully transitioned into business, real estate, and investments while maintaining a strong presence in the hockey world. His story is a testament to not only athletic greatness but also financial acumen and entrepreneurial spirit.
