When the game ends: Divorce in the world of sports

Chris Longbottom, partner and head of the family and divorce team at national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, looks at divorce in the world of professional sports.

Divorce is never easy, but when one or both partners are professional athletes, the stakes are higher, the headlines louder and the financial playbook far more complex.

In 2025, sports-related divorces are drawing more attention than ever. Here’s what makes them unique – and what athletes (and their advisors) need to know.

The financial playbook: What makes sports divorces different?

Athletes often earn millions – but over a short career span. This creates unique challenges:

– Short earning windows: A footballer might peak in their 20s, with limited future income.

– Unpredictable income: Bonuses, endorsements, and performance pay vary year to year.

– Image rights: These are tied to personal branding and can be hard to value.

– International assets: Many athletes own property or businesses abroad, complicating legal and tax matters.

Jurisdiction battles: Where your divorce matters

UK courts are known for fairness and transparency, making them a popular choice for high-net-worth divorces.

But in 2025, there’s been a sharp rise in jurisdictional disputes, especially among international athletes.

Why? Because where you divorce can significantly affect what you walk away with.

Full disclosure: No hiding behind the brand

UK courts require full financial transparency. That includes:

– Playing contracts and bonuses

– Sponsorship and endorsement deals

– Property, trusts, and offshore accounts

Trying to hide assets? Courts can impose penalties or reopen settlements.

Prenups: The smartest pre-game strategy

More athletes are turning to prenuptial agreements to protect their wealth. While not automatically binding in the UK, courts increasingly respect prenups – especially when both parties had legal advice and the terms are fair.

Mental health and media pressure

Divorce is tough. Divorce in the public eye? Even tougher.

Athletes face intense media scrutiny, which can affect performance, endorsements, and mental health. Legal teams now often include PR advisors and mental health professionals to help manage the fallout.

The rise of collaborative divorce

Even in high-profile cases, more couples are choosing non-court options like mediation or “One Couple One Lawyer” models. These approaches are more private, likely more cost-effective and often less emotionally draining. In 2025, this trend is growing fast even in the world of elite sports.

Final whistle

Divorce in the sports world isn’t just about money, it’s about legacy, reputation, and life after the final whistle. With the right legal advice and planning, athletes can protect their interests and make the process as smooth and non-combative as possible.

Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.

The firm’s expert family lawyers, headed up by Chris Longbottom, deal with all sorts of divorce including high net worth and sports related cases.