Ever wondered how Lee Trevino amassed his impressive wealth? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at his net worth, salary, and the sources of his income.
We’ll dive into how his career, endorsements, and business ventures contributed to his financial success over the years. Let’s explore the financial side of this golf legend.
Lee Trevino Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Lee Buck Trevino |
| Popular Name | The Merry Mex |
| Birth Date | December 1, 1939 |
| Age | 85 (as of March 2025) |
| Birthplace | Garland, Texas, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Mexican-American |
| Education | Dropped out at 14 |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Claudia Trevino (m. 1983), Claudia Fenley (m. 1964–1983), Linda Trevino (m. 1962–1963) |
| Children | 6 (Lesley Ann Trevino, Daniel Lee Trevino, Troy Trevino, Olivia Leigh Trevino, Tony Lee Trevino, Richard Trevino) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Juanita Trevino (mother), Joseph Trevino (father, absent) |
| Height | 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in) |
| Net Worth | $50 million (estimated) |
| Source of Wealth | Golf, endorsements, real estate |
What is the Net Worth of Lee Trevino in 2025?
As of 2025, Lee Trevino’s net worth is estimated at around $50 million.
This wealth is a result of his successful golfing career, with six major championships and 92 professional wins. Additionally, his endorsement deals and business ventures significantly boosted his finances.
Comparatively, Trevino’s net worth is on par with other golfing legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, who have built similar financial legacies through golf and endorsements.
Here are some notable figures related to Lee Trevino’s career:
- Jack Nicklaus
- Tiger Woods
- Arnold Palmer
- Phil Mickelson
- Gary Player
For more information on the richest athletes, check out our full list here.
Lee Trevino Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Lee Trevino Built His Wealth Over the Years
Lee Trevino’s financial success began early in his life, despite growing up in a modest household. Born in Garland, Texas, to a Mexican-American family, he dropped out of school at age 14 to work full-time. His journey into golf was unconventional, starting as a caddie before he worked his way up to professional golf.
His career really took off when he won the US Open in 1968, his first major championship, which set the stage for his future success. Over the next few years, he would go on to win six major championships and secure his place as one of golf’s all-time greats. His victories in the US Open, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship helped build his reputation—and his wealth.
In addition to his tournament winnings, Trevino capitalized on his public image with endorsement deals. Over the years, he appeared in numerous commercials and built strong brand relationships, which contributed greatly to his wealth. His wealth is a testament to his skill on the course and his savvy financial decisions off of it.
What Are Lee Trevino’s Main Sources of Income?
Trevino’s income came from a combination of tournament winnings, endorsements, and various business ventures. His PGA Tour earnings were impressive, with notable wins and a solid career spanning several decades. But it wasn’t just about the golf course for Lee; his endorsements played a major role in boosting his salary.
Trevino worked with several high-profile companies during his career, including Nike and other golf equipment brands. His brand appeal—including his trademark humor and charisma—helped him maintain these endorsement deals long after his prime playing years.
Beyond that, Trevino has also profited from appearances in movies like Happy Gilmore and his continued presence in the golf community through exhibitions and charity events. His diverse sources of income have helped him build a lasting fortune.
His Career Earnings and Financial Milestones
Lee Trevino earned $9.9 million in official PGA Tour earnings. This figure may seem modest compared to current golfing superstars, but back in Trevino’s era, it was a substantial amount of money. The tournament winnings were just one aspect of his financial growth.
Trevino’s true wealth came from his diversified approach. In 1971, he became the first golfer to win the US Open, The Open Championship, and the Canadian Open in the same year, a feat that helped solidify his financial foundation. These major achievements resulted in sponsorships, higher earnings, and further opportunities to invest in his financial portfolio.
Trevino’s wealth continued to grow with each championship win and endorsement. His financial milestones reflect both his success in the sport and his ability to manage his income wisely.
What Impact Did Lee Trevino’s Endorsements Have on His Wealth?
Throughout his career, Trevino’s endorsements had a huge impact on his financial success. Beyond his earnings from golf tournaments, his deals with companies like Nike and Wilson helped elevate his wealth. These deals capitalized on his fame and his ability to connect with fans.
Trevino was known for his humorous personality, which resonated well with brands looking to tap into a wider, more diverse audience. This charm made him not just a golfer, but a cultural icon. As a result, his endorsements provided a consistent income stream, even after he slowed down on the competitive golf circuit.
His ability to leverage his golf fame for brand deals allowed him to build a robust financial portfolio, laying the groundwork for his later years of wealth accumulation.
How His Financial Management and Investments Impacted His Wealth
Lee Trevino was also smart with his financial management. After his successful golf career, he made wise investments in real estate and other ventures. One notable example is the purchase of a mansion in Preston Hollow, Dallas. This home, which he bought in 1996, was a lavish estate that served as a symbol of his success.
Over the years, Trevino made sure his investments generated income. He also participated in various businesses beyond the world of golf, further securing his financial future. His ability to make savvy decisions off the course has ensured that his wealth will continue to grow even as he ages.
His Salary and Earnings During His Peak Years
During his peak years, Lee Trevino was one of the highest-paid golfers on the PGA Tour. His victories in major tournaments added significantly to his salary. In the early ’70s, he was known for his incredible win streaks, which brought him considerable tournament earnings.
In addition to his golf winnings, Trevino’s reputation allowed him to command lucrative appearance fees and sponsorships. At his peak, he was a well-known figure in the sports world, which made him a sought-after endorser and allowed him to earn additional money through non-golf avenues.
His Wealth Post-Retirement: What Does He Do Now?
Today, even though Lee Trevino is no longer an active competitor on the PGA Tour, he remains a significant figure in the golf world. His wealth continues to grow through appearances at golf exhibitions, charity events, and media opportunities.
He still leverages his iconic status for endorsements, and his continued involvement in the sport helps maintain his financial relevance. In addition, Trevino has passed on his knowledge to the next generation of golfers, ensuring that his legacy—and financial security—remains intact.
The Role of Media and Public Appearances in Lee Trevino’s Financial Success
His appearances in media, especially in movies like Happy Gilmore, helped elevate his public profile and contributed to his wealth. His humor and charisma made him a favorite among fans, and this popularity translated into media deals and public appearances.
Trevino used these appearances to increase his brand recognition and promote his own financial ventures. His ability to make the transition from professional golfer to media personality played a pivotal role in maintaining his financial success over the years.
Conclusion
Lee Trevino’s wealth is a testament to his remarkable career in golf and his smart financial decisions.
His ability to leverage both his athletic achievements and public appeal helped him accumulate significant wealth. Interested in learning more about celebrities’ wealth? Check out more content on AndoMoney.
