Jussi Meresmaa emerges as top disc golf earner in Finland after successful career
Thursday 7th November 2024 on 08:38 in
Finland
Jussi Meresmaa, a 46-year-old resident of Lempäälä, Finland, began his journey in disc golf in 1994 while juggling studies and various jobs. After a decade of dedication, he finally made it to the United States, where the sport’s major competitions were held—a trip he could not afford earlier.
Meresmaa became the first professional Finnish player to compete internationally, and today, he is also a millionaire. Recent tax records for 2023 reveal his earnings to be nearly €50,000, with capital gains exceeding €15 million, resulting in a tax contribution of over €5.2 million. This income has positioned him as the highest earner in Pirkanmaa.
Last year, Meresmaa sold his company, Spin18, known for the Discmania brand, to investors. The company began in 2001 from his parents’ garage, driven more by passion than profit. “I wanted to make disc golf a global sport and provide equipment to players in Finland,” he said. He emphasizes that his work has never felt burdensome, as it stems from a love for the sport.
Meresmaa remains involved as a board member and has invested part of his earnings into the Swedish group that acquired his company. He also serves as a course designer and event organizer. His dream will be realized next year when Tampere and Nokia host the World Championships in disc golf.
Still enjoying the sport recreationally, Meresmaa stopped competing a decade ago but continues to mentor youth, urging them to pursue their dreams and challenge conventional career paths.