Lance Franklin, the Australian Rules Football sensation, has taken the world of sports by storm with his incredible talent, dedication, and impressive net worth. As of 2023, he stands as one of the most renowned athletes in Australia and continues to leave a lasting impact on the sport. In this article, we will delve into Lance Franklin’s net worth, his early life, and his remarkable career in the year 2023.
Early Life and Beginnings
Lance “Buddy” Franklin was born on January 30, 1987, in Perth, Western Australia. From a young age, he displayed an innate talent for sports, particularly Australian Rules Football (AFL). His journey towards becoming one of the greatest Australian Rules Footballers of all time began in earnest during his teenage years when he moved to Western Australia to attend Wesley College.
Franklin’s athletic prowess quickly became evident, and he soon found himself in the national spotlight as a rising star in Australian Rules Football. His ability to leap high above his opponents and kick goals from seemingly impossible angles set him apart from his peers and marked the beginning of a legendary career.
Career Highlights
Lance Franklin’s professional AFL career began when he was selected as the fifth overall pick by the Hawthorn Football Club in the 2004 AFL Draft. He made his debut for the club in 2005 and made an immediate impact, earning the AFL Rising Star nomination in his debut season. Over the years, Franklin’s influence on the field grew exponentially, and he was a crucial part of the Hawthorn team that won the 2008 AFL Premiership.
In 2014, Franklin made a high-profile move to the Sydney Swans, signing a nine-year deal worth a reported $10 million, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league. His transition to the Swans was seamless, and he continued to deliver exceptional performances, consistently ranking among the league’s top goal scorers. Many AFL tipsters would follow Franklin closely, if he was playing, they would likely be tipping the Swans.
Franklin’s ability to consistently find the back of the net has earned him multiple accolades and honours throughout his career. He has been named an All-Australian player eight times, won the Coleman Medal (awarded to the league’s leading goal kicker) four times, and received numerous club awards for his outstanding contributions to both Hawthorn and Sydney.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Lance Franklin’s net worth is estimated to be in the range of $15 million to $20 million. His substantial earnings come from various sources, including his lucrative AFL contracts, endorsements, and investments. His record-breaking contract with the Sydney Swans remains one of the most significant in Australian sports history and has contributed significantly to his net worth.
In addition to his football career, Franklin has been associated with several high-profile endorsements, including partnerships with brands like Nike and Toyota. These endorsements have added to his financial success and have solidified his status as a marketable figure both within and beyond the sporting world.
Beyond his earnings, Franklin has also made savvy investments in the real estate market, including owning multiple properties across Australia. These investments have provided him with a stable source of income and further bolstered his net worth.
Impact Beyond the Field
Lance Franklin’s influence extends well beyond the football field. He has been an advocate for mental health awareness and has openly discussed his struggles with mental health issues. His willingness to share his experiences has helped reduce the stigma surrounding mental health in sports and has inspired countless individuals to seek help when needed.
In 2023, Franklin established the Buddy Franklin Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and providing support to those in need. Through his foundation, he has worked tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of others, using his platform and resources to address mental health challenges in Australia.
In conclusion, Lance Franklin’s remarkable journey from a young talent in Western Australia to one of the AFL’s greatest players has been nothing short of extraordinary. As of 2023, with a net worth in the range of $15 million to $20 million, he has not only achieved incredible success on the football field but has also made a substantial impact off it. His dedication to mental health awareness and his exceptional contributions to Australian Rules Football make him an enduring figure in the world of sports and a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.
