MS Dhoni: Mahendra Singh Dhoni, widely regarded as one of the best captains in the history of Indian cricket, has not only achieved immense success on the field but also amassed considerable wealth off it. Known for his calm demeanor and sharp cricketing acumen, MS Dhoni’s journey from a small-town boy to a global icon is nothing short of extraordinary. As of 2016, Dhoni had become one of the richest athletes in the world, a status he had earned through his career, endorsements, business ventures, and investments.
Early Life and Career
MS Dhoni was born on July 7, 1981, in Ranchi, Bihar (now in Jharkhand). He initially played football and badminton at a young age, before transitioning to cricket. After representing his state and the India A team, Dhoni was selected for the Indian national team in 2004. Over time, his remarkable performances made him a key player for India, and his leadership capabilities led him to be named the captain of the Indian national team in 2007.
Under Dhoni’s leadership, India won major international tournaments such as the 2007 ICC World Twenty20, 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, and 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. His leadership and successful career have laid the foundation for his financial success.
Sources of Income for MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni’s wealth can be attributed to various sources, including his cricketing career, brand endorsements, business ventures, and investments. Let’s break down these areas of income and see how Dhoni’s wealth was generated in 2016.
1. Cricket Career Earnings
MS Dhoni’s cricketing career was the primary source of his wealth. From his debut in 2004 to his retirement from Test cricket in 2014 and his retirement from international cricket in 2020, Dhoni earned significant amounts from both playing for the Indian team and from domestic leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Indian Premier League (IPL): Dhoni played for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, where he was one of the most expensive players in the league. In 2016, MS Dhoni’s IPL salary was approximately ₹12.5 crore (about $1.9 million). He was one of the highest-paid cricketers in the IPL, a tournament that became a significant source of income for him.
International Cricket: Dhoni earned a substantial sum through match fees, central contracts, and bonuses from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). For instance, in 2016, Dhoni’s central contract with the BCCI paid him ₹2 crore annually, excluding additional match fees and bonuses.
2. Endorsements and Brand Deals
One of the key areas contributing to MS Dhoni’s net worth in 2016 was his lucrative endorsement deals. Dhoni’s popularity extended well beyond the cricket field, making him a sought-after celebrity for various brands. By 2016, he had endorsed over 20 brands, including some of the biggest names in the industry, such as:
- Reebok
- PepsiCo
- Sony
- Boost
- Sahara India
- Rajshree Entertainment
- GoDaddy
- Coca-Cola
- Puma
MS Dhoni was the face of many prominent advertising campaigns, and in 2016, it was estimated that his endorsement income was around ₹100 crore (approximately $15 million) annually. This figure made him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world through endorsements.
3. Business Ventures and Investments
MS Dhoni is also known for his astute business ventures, which have significantly contributed to his net worth. Dhoni has invested in various sectors, ranging from sports to lifestyle brands. Some of his major business interests include:
Chennaiyin FC: Dhoni is a co-owner of the Indian Super League (ISL) football team Chennaiyin FC, which he purchased in 2014.
Seven: In 2016, Dhoni launched his own sportswear brand, “Seven,” in collaboration with the Indian company, SEVEN. The brand focuses on high-quality fitness and sports apparel.
Agriculture: Dhoni has invested in agriculture and organic farming in his hometown of Ranchi, showcasing his interest in sustainability.
Real Estate: Dhoni has invested in real estate, including the construction of luxury apartments and other properties in various parts of India.
These ventures, combined with his investments in other areas, have contributed significantly to Dhoni’s wealth over time.
4. Real Estate
MS Dhoni’s love for luxury and an elite lifestyle is reflected in his investments in real estate. His properties include:
Ranchi Residence: A sprawling, luxurious bungalow in Ranchi where Dhoni spends a considerable amount of time. This residence includes a vast collection of motorcycles and other high-end amenities.
Mumbai Property: MS Dhoni has also invested in prime properties in Mumbai, where he often stays when in the city for professional engagements.
MS Dhoni’s Net Worth in 2016
In 2016, MS Dhoni’s net worth was estimated at approximately ₹750 crore (around $112 million). This figure accounted for all of his earnings from cricket, endorsements, business ventures, and other investments.
Breakdown of MS Dhoni’s Income in 2016
| Source of Income | Annual Income (₹) | Annual Income (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| IPL Salary (Chennai Super Kings) | ₹12.5 crore | $1.9 million |
| BCCI Central Contract (International Cricket) | ₹2 crore | $300,000 |
| Endorsements and Brand Deals | ₹100 crore | $15 million |
| Business Ventures (Investments) | ₹50 crore | $7.5 million |
| Total | ₹750 crore | $112 million |
As seen from the table, MS Dhoni’s earnings from endorsements and brand deals were a major contributor to his net worth, followed by his income from cricket and business ventures.
MS Dhoni’s Lifestyle and Expenditures
MS Dhoni is known for his humble and unassuming lifestyle, despite his vast wealth. He has maintained a low-key public profile off the field and enjoys a simple life in his home city of Ranchi. Some of the notable aspects of his lifestyle include:
Cars and Motorcycles: Dhoni is a passionate motorcycle enthusiast and owns an extensive collection of bikes, including brands like Yamaha, Harley-Davidson, and Ducati.
Luxury Cars: Dhoni also owns several luxury cars, such as a Hummer H2, Audi Q7, and a Range Rover.
By 2016, MS Dhoni had firmly established himself as one of the wealthiest athletes globally. Through his cricket career, endorsement deals, business ventures, and investments, he managed to accumulate an impressive fortune. His ability to diversify his sources of income, combined with his meticulous approach to wealth management, helped him build a legacy both on and off the field.
His net worth in 2016, estimated at around ₹750 crore (approximately $112 million), was a testament to his hard work, strategic business acumen, and global popularity. Dhoni’s wealth continued to grow in the subsequent years, but his journey toward becoming one of India’s most successful sports icons was firmly rooted in the foundations laid in 2016.
