Björn Borg, the legendary Swedish tennis star, remains an iconic figure in sports history. As of 2025, Björn Borg’s age is 69, born on June 6, 1956. His net worth is estimated at $80 million, largely from his tennis career and successful fashion brand. Married to Patricia Östfeldt since 2002, Borg has lived a fascinating life both on and off the court. Known for his height of 5’11” and athletic build, his career includes 11 Grand Slam titles, with a salary from endorsements and prize money reaching millions. This article explores Borg’s biography, career, personal life, and recent updates.
Early Life and Rise to Tennis Stardom
Born in Stockholm, Sweden, Björn Borg’s journey began with a tennis racket his father, Rune, won at a table-tennis tournament. At 13, Borg was already defeating Sweden’s top under-18 players, showcasing his prodigious talent. His unique two-handed backhand, inspired by hockey, and relentless baseline play made him a standout. By 15, he debuted in the 1972 Davis Cup, winning against seasoned professionals. This early success set the stage for a career that would redefine tennis.
Borg’s athleticism was remarkable. His weight, maintained at around 160 pounds during his prime, complemented his speed and endurance. His bowlegged stance and muscular build allowed him to dominate with heavy topspin. Unlike modern players, Borg’s raw, unpolished style was never altered, a decision his coach Lennart Bergelin championed, leading to his meteoric rise.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Björn Borg’s career is a testament to excellence. Between 1974 and 1981, he won 11 Grand Slam singles titles: six French Opens and five consecutive Wimbledons, a record only matched by Roger Federer in the modern era. His 66 singles titles rank him among the all-time greats, and he was the first player to earn over $1 million in prize money in a single season (1979). His rivalries with John McEnroe and Jimmy Connors captivated audiences, particularly the 1980 Wimbledon final, often called the greatest match in tennis history.
Borg’s dominance on clay and grass showcased his versatility. His career win rate of 82.7% in singles remains one of the highest in the Open Era. However, he never won the US Open, losing four finals, a gap in an otherwise stellar resume. His salary from endorsements, including brands like FILA and Rolex, significantly boosted his earnings.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Björn Rune Borg |
| Date of Birth | June 6, 1956 |
| Age (2025) | 69 years |
| Birthplace | Stockholm, Sweden |
| Height | 5’11” (1.80 m) |
| Weight (Prime) | ~160 lbs (73 kg) |
| Nationality | Swedish |
| Career Titles | 66 singles, 4 doubles |
| Grand Slam Titles | 11 (6 French Open, 5 Wimbledon) |
| Career Prize Money | $3,655,751 |
| Net Worth (2025) | ~$80 million |
| First Professional Match | 1972 Davis Cup |
| Retirement | 1983 (brief comeback 1991–1993) |
| Hall of Fame | Inducted in 1987 |
| Coach | Lennart Bergelin |
| Playing Style | Baseline, two-handed backhand |
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Björn Borg’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $80 million, a figure driven by his tennis earnings and entrepreneurial ventures. His Björn Borg fashion brand, launched in 1989, is a major contributor, particularly in Sweden, where it rivals Calvin Klein in the underwear market. In 2006, Borg sold the trademark rights to his name for $18 million, but the brand continues to generate significant revenue, with annual turnovers reportedly exceeding $100 million.
Borg’s endorsements during his career included FILA, Tretorn Shoes, and Bancroft Rackets, adding millions to his wealth. His financial acumen post-retirement contrasts with early setbacks, including a failed comeback attempt in 1991–1993, where he won no matches. His ability to pivot to business highlights his adaptability, a trait that defined his tennis career.
Married Life and Relationships
Björn Borg’s married life has been eventful. He married Mariana Simionescu, a Romanian tennis player, in 1980 after dating since 1976. Their marriage ended in 1984. Borg then had a son, Robin, with Swedish model Jannike Björling in 1985. His second marriage to Italian singer Loredana Bertè (1989–1993) was tumultuous, marked by personal struggles, including a 1989 hospitalization for what Borg clarified was not a suicide attempt but an overdose of sleeping pills due to exhaustion.
Since 2002, Borg has been happily married to Patricia Östfeldt, a real estate agent. They have a son, Leo Borg, born in 2003, who is carving his own path as a professional tennis player. Leo’s career, with a peak ATP ranking of No. 506 in 2023, reflects his father’s influence but also the pressure of living up to the Borg legacy. Borg has spoken about Leo’s independence, noting, “He wants to do it his way, and I respect that.”
Dating History and Public Persona
Borg’s dating history drew significant attention during his career. Dubbed the “rock star of tennis,” his good looks and cool demeanor earned him the nickname “Ice Borg.” His relationships, particularly with Simionescu and Björling, were highly publicized. Despite the media frenzy, Borg sought a normal life, which contributed to his 1983 retirement at 26. He later reflected, “It became a circus. I couldn’t live like that anymore.”
Today, Borg maintains a low profile, living near Stockholm with Patricia and occasionally appearing at tennis events like the Laver Cup, where he captains Team Europe. His Instagram (@bjornborg), with over 138,000 followers, offers glimpses into his life and brand.
Recent Updates and Legacy
In 2025, Borg remains active in tennis through his role in the Laver Cup, where Team Europe dominated in 2021. His son Leo’s career is a focal point, with Borg balancing support and restraint. Leo’s victory at the 2023 Bastad Open first round marked a milestone, though he faces challenges in escaping his father’s shadow. Borg’s legacy as a pioneer of modern tennis endures, with his 11 Grand Slams inspiring players like Novak Djokovic and Rafael Nadal.
Borg’s impact extends beyond statistics. His calm demeanor contrasted with McEnroe’s volatility, creating a cultural phenomenon. The 2017 film “Borg vs. McEnroe” immortalized their rivalry, with Leo portraying a young Björn. Borg’s ability to excel on clay and grass, surfaces requiring vastly different skills, remains a benchmark for versatility.
Unique Insights and Perspective
Having observed Borg’s career through historical footage and interviews, his mental resilience stands out. Unlike modern players with sports psychologists, Borg relied on instinct and discipline. His retirement at 26 wasn’t just burnout; it was a bold choice for mental health, rare in an era lacking such awareness. A case study of his 1980 Wimbledon final reveals his ability to win 19 consecutive service points in the fifth set, a feat of focus unmatched today.
Borg’s fashion brand success also offers a lesson in reinvention. While many athletes struggle post-retirement, Borg’s pivot to business mirrors the strategic thinking he displayed on the court. His story resonates with younger audiences navigating fame in the social media age, where privacy is even harder to maintain.
Conclusion
Björn Borg’s age, net worth, married life, and career paint a picture of a man who transcended tennis. At 69, with a net worth of $80 million, he enjoys a stable life with Patricia Östfeldt while supporting Leo Borg’s budding career. His height, weight, and athletic prowess defined an era, and his legacy as a tennis star endures. For more, visit Wikipedia, ATP Tour, or follow him on Instagram.
