Michael Jordan sneaker auction breaks world record

A set of Michael Jordan’s sneakers – Air Jordans, of course – has sold for $8 million (£6.33 million) at auction in New York.

This isn’t a pair of sneakers, but a set of shoes from the NBA star’s collection during his time with the Chicago Bulls, a highlight of his career.

A set of six pairs of shoes called The Dynasty Collection was released on February 2 with a total price of $8,032,800.

This number sets a record for a game-worn shoe at auction.

These shoes are the 1991 Air Jordan VI, the 1992 Air Jordan VII, the 1993 Air Jordan VIII, the 1996 Air Jordan IX, the 1997 XII and the 1998 Air Jordan XIV.

All shoes are signed and come with limited edition photos of the shoes worn in several NBA Finals games.

Jordan’s legacy is closely tied to the Chicago Bulls. Photo courtesy of NBA.

Sales were in line with expectations. The estimate is $7 million to $10 million.

Sotheby’s hosted the sale. Brahm Wachter, their head of modern collections, said: “Today’s record-breaking price is a testament to the goat.

“The Dynasty Collection is undeniably one of the most important collections of sports memorabilia in history. It serves as both a reminder of Michael Jordan’s lasting impact on the world and a tangible representation of his recognized legendary status, which this landmark achievement further confirms its importance.”

The collection is currently on display in Dubai.

In the world of collectibles, Michael Jordan may be the most valuable athlete.

His 1998 NBA Finals shoes sold for £8 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2022. A pair of signed Nike Air Ship shoes sold for nearly £500,000 in 2023. The Air Jordan 13 shoes from the 1998 NBA Finals series were also sold last year for about £2 million.

Jordan has transcended his own sport and become a cultural icon. And it’s global.

Can anyone match him?

In football, maybe Lionel Messi. Tiger Woods plays golf. Historically, Muhammad Ali was a boxer.

Today’s athletes are brands. They know their worth, and the value of their equipment, jerseys and autographs.

A set of Messi jerseys sold at last year’s World Cup in Qatar were sold by Messi himself.

Top stars are also extremely wealthy, something that previous generations of sports people were not associated with. It is unlikely that someone like Jordan would be forced to sell his personal collection, as England’s World Cup winner has been since 1966.