Money has been getting thrown around the golf world as of late. Players such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, and Bryson Dechambeau received 6-figure deals to play in the LIV Golf league. However, one star who declined to join the Saudi-backed golf league recently joined LeBron James and Michael Jordan as athlete billionaires. Tiger Woods, who is arguably the best golfer to ever play the game, recently joined the elite billionaire status according to Forbes.

Forbes also reports that Woods turned down a “high night digits” deal from LIV Golf. He could have become a billionaire alone from that money along with his various endorsements. But Tiger opted to decline the invitation and became a billionaire anyway.

Tiger Woods is arguably the most talented golfer to ever play. However, there isn't much debate that he is the most marketable player in the sport. His name alone catches the attention of people who could care less about golf. In the early-mid 2000's his name was amongst stars such as LeBron James, Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Serena Williams, etc. That popularity led to a number of different endorsements deals which helped increase his net worth.

Brady is destined to become a billionaire at some point given that he already has a massive sportscasting contract set up upon his retirement. It would not be surprising to see him join Woods, LeBron, and Jordan at some point.

But the fact that Woods accomplished the feat in a less-popular US sport such as golf is extremely impressive. Tiger Woods changed the game and has undeniably been golf's greatest growth factor.

And he didn't even need to take Saudi money to do it.