Steve Ovett at a Glance
- Net Worth: $4 Million
- Birthdate: October 9, 1955
- Birthplace: Brighton, England
- Nationality: British
- Profession: Former middle-distance runner, Broadcaster
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What is Steve Ovett’s Net Worth?
Steve Ovett has a net worth of $4 million. The British former middle-distance runner built his fortune primarily through his dominant athletic career in the 1970s and 1980s, followed by a long-standing role as a sports commentator. During his running peak, Ovett’s income was derived from appearance fees and brand endorsements, which were substantial for an athlete of his global stature. His intense and highly publicized rivalry with fellow Briton Sebastian Coe elevated the sport of middle-distance running, making both athletes two of the most marketable figures in athletics. After retiring from competition, Ovett transitioned into a successful career in broadcasting, working as a prominent track and field commentator for networks including the BBC and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
Early Life
Steve Ovett was born in Brighton, England, on October 9, 1955. He was educated at Varndean Grammar School, where he displayed significant athletic talent from a young age. Though he also showed promise as a footballer, he ultimately preferred the individual nature of athletics. His talent was immediately apparent, and he began accumulating national titles as a teenager, culminating in a gold medal in the 800 meters at the 1973 European Athletics Junior Championships.
Career
Steve Ovett’s professional career is defined by his intense rivalry with Sebastian Coe and his achievements at the 1980 Olympic Games. He emerged as a dominant force in the mid-1970s, known for his powerful finishing kick and a confident, sometimes combative, public persona that contrasted sharply with Coe. Ovett was unbeaten in the 1500 meters and the mile for three years between 1977 and 1980.
The peak of his career came at the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Ovett entered the games as the heavy favorite in the 1500m, while his rival Coe was favored in the 800m. In a famous upset, Ovett surged from sixth place on the final bend to win the 800m gold medal, with Coe taking silver. Six days later, Coe turned the tables in the 1500m final, winning gold while Ovett finished in third place for the bronze medal.
Beyond the Olympics, Ovett was a prolific world-record setter. He set six world records during his career, covering the 1500m, the mile, and the two-mile. In one famous nine-day period in 1981, he and Coe traded the world record for the mile three times.
Ovett’s later career was hampered by health issues. At the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, he suffered from respiratory problems and bronchitis. He managed to qualify for the 800m final but finished eighth and collapsed, requiring hospitalization. He later attempted to run in the 1500m final but was forced to drop out. He found success again by winning gold in the 5000 meters at the 1986 Commonwealth Games before retiring from the sport in 1991.
Following his retirement, Ovett built a long-term career as a television commentator, providing expert analysis for major athletics events around the world.
