The world of sports has witnessed legendary athletes who have broken records and achieved feats that few can replicate. These icons not only dominate their respective sports but also become global brands, leveraging their popularity to drive endorsement deals and merchandise sales. Among the most sought-after memorabilia are player jerseys, which hold iconic status, especially for athletes who have left an indelible mark on their sport. Whether they stay loyal to one team or switch clubs, these players’ jerseys generate massive sales and global attention.
Here, we explore the ten best-selling and most iconic sports jerseys of all time, considering factors such as sales figures, popularity, and cultural impact.
The 10 Best-Selling Jerseys of All Time
1. Michael Jordan – Chicago Bulls, No. 23
Michael Jordan’s No. 23 jersey with the Chicago Bulls is arguably the most iconic in sports history. His unmatched success on the basketball court and his global influence through endorsements and movies like Space Jam have kept his jersey in high demand even years after his retirement. Jordan’s legacy continues to resonate with fans worldwide.
2. LeBron James – Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, Los Angeles Lakers (No. 23 and No. 6)
LeBron James has been a dominant figure in basketball for over two decades. His jerseys, whether from his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, or Los Angeles Lakers, consistently rank among the best-sellers. LeBron’s influence extends beyond the court, making his jersey a symbol of his enduring legacy.
3. Lionel Messi – FC Barcelona, No. 10
Lionel Messi’s No. 10 jersey at FC Barcelona became a global phenomenon, representing his extraordinary performances on the pitch. As one of the greatest footballers in history, Messi’s jersey remains one of the most popular worldwide.
4. Tom Brady – New England Patriots, No. 12
Tom Brady’s No. 12 jersey for the New England Patriots is legendary in NFL history due to his unparalleled achievements, including multiple Super Bowl victories. His move to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers further boosted sales, underscoring his immense fan base.
5. Cristiano Ronaldo – Manchester United (No. 7)
Cristiano Ronaldo’s iconic No. 7 jersey has been a top seller during his stints with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. Known for both his exceptional skills on the field and his marketability off it, Ronaldo’s jerseys are among the most coveted by fans globally.
6. Kobe Bryant – Los Angeles Lakers (No. 24 and No. 8)
Kobe Bryant’s jerseys—No. 24 and No. 8—became even more iconic following his tragic death in 2020, leading to a surge in sales. A legend of the game with an illustrious career at the Los Angeles Lakers, Bryant’s legacy ensures his jerseys remain timeless.
7. Derek Jeter – New York Yankees, No. 2
Derek Jeter’s No. 2 jersey is synonymous with the New York Yankees’ dominance during his era. As one of baseball’s most beloved figures, Jeter’s jersey reflects his status as a cultural and sporting icon.
8. Neymar Jr. – Paris Saint-Germain (No. 10)
Since joining Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Neymar Jr.’s No. 10 jersey has seen impressive sales worldwide due to his flamboyant playstyle and immense popularity among football fans.
9. Steph Curry – Golden State Warriors (No. 30)
Steph Curry’s No. 30 jersey has become one of basketball’s best-sellers thanks to his revolutionary shooting ability and multiple championships with the Golden State Warriors. Curry’s influence on modern basketball has endeared him to fans globally.
10. Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers (No. 12)
Aaron Rodgers’ No. 12 jersey remains a staple in NFL merchandise sales due to his incredible talent as a quarterback and long-standing success with the Green Bay Packers.
Honorable Mention: Shohei Ohtani – Los Angeles Dodgers
Shohei Ohtani recently set a record for the fastest-selling jersey on Fanatics within just 48 hours of its release after joining the Los Angeles Dodgers—surpassing previous top sellers like Cristiano Ronaldo’s and Lionel Messi’s jerseys.
These athletes have not only excelled in their respective sports but also transcended them through their charisma and cultural impact, making their jerseys some of the most coveted items in sports history.
