Bradley Wiggins: The Rise and Fall of a Cycling Legend
Sir Bradley Wiggins stands as one of the most celebrated figures in British sporting history. The retired cyclist carved his name into the annals of the sport by securing an impressive five Olympic gold medals and making history as the first Briton ever to win the Tour de France. His achievements transformed him into a national sports hero, revered for his dedication and unparalleled success across both track and road cycling disciplines.
A Stark Financial Decline: From Millions to Bankruptcy
According to the latest estimates from Celebrity Net Worth, Bradley Wiggins' current net worth is approximately $100,000. This figure represents a dramatic fall from the multi-million pound fortune he was believed to possess during his peak years around 2017. His wealth was primarily accumulated through:
- Prize money from numerous cycling victories
- Lucrative endorsement deals and sponsorships
- Public appearances and brand partnerships
However, the post-retirement period has been financially devastating. In June 2024, Wiggins was officially declared bankrupt by a court in the United Kingdom. This legal ruling followed years of financial crises within his business ventures and could potentially lead to the forced sale of his remaining assets to settle debts.
An Illustrious Career Marked by Historic Achievements
Born on April 28, 1980, in Ghent, Belgium, Bradley Wiggins developed into one of Britain's most decorated cyclists. His Olympic journey spanned five Games, where he demonstrated exceptional versatility by excelling in both track and road events. The pinnacle of his career arrived in 2012 when he accomplished an extraordinary double:
- Victory in the Tour de France
- Olympic gold medal in the time trial event
This remarkable feat earned him a knighthood in 2013, cementing his status as a sporting icon. His Olympic gold medals in track cycling, accumulated between 2004 and 2016, showcased his athletic prowess across multiple cycling disciplines.
Life After Cycling: Personal Struggles and Family Legacy
Since retiring from professional racing in 2016, Wiggins has been open about the challenges of transitioning away from elite sports. In 2025, he publicly disclosed his battle with cocaine addiction, revealing that he has achieved sobriety through robust support systems. He has also spoken candidly about his mental health struggles and the difficulties of adjusting to life after years at the pinnacle of competitive cycling.
Interestingly, Wiggins credited fellow cyclist Lance Armstrong with providing support during his recovery journey. Meanwhile, his son, Ben Wiggins, is continuing the family's cycling legacy by competing as a professional cyclist, ensuring the Wiggins name remains present in the sport.
The story of Bradley Wiggins serves as a powerful reminder of how quickly fortunes can change, even for those who have reached the absolute zenith of sporting achievement. His journey from Olympic glory and Tour de France victory to financial hardship and personal battles highlights the complex realities many athletes face after their competitive careers conclude.
