Denny Hamlin on Michael Jordan competitiveness was highlighted recently as Hamlin, currently the oldest active driver in the NASCAR Cup Series, shared insights on his partnership with the basketball legend. Despite Hamlin’s determination to claim a NASCAR Cup Series championship as a driver for Joe Gibbs Racing, his collaboration with Michael Jordan at 23XI Racing reveals a different side of Jordan than his iconic intensely competitive persona.
Hamlin, who has captured three Daytona 500 titles, shows no signs of slowing down as he moves closer to NASCAR‘s 2025 playoffs. Alongside his business partner and 23XI Racing co-owner, Michael Jordan, Hamlin has an opportunity to reflect not just on racing, but also on what makes successful competitors tick. Although Jordan is renowned for his drive, being hailed as one of the fiercest athletes and often compared to Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s “Intimidator” persona, Hamlin now experiences a more composed version of the Hall of Famer.
Contrasting Jordan’s Legacy as a Competitor with His Current Persona
During his NBA tenure, Michael Jordan established a reputation for relentless intensity, marked by confrontations with figures such as Steve Kerr and electrifying performances against the likes of Magic Johnson and David Robinson. His competitive instinct never seemed to wane on the court, often pushing both himself and his teammates to their limits.
As co-owners of 23XI Racing, both Jordan and Hamlin bring deep competitive spirits to their NASCAR endeavors. Yet Hamlin acknowledges that the Jordan he works alongside as a business partner bears little resemblance to the imposing competitor seen during his NBA years. He admitted that his personal experience with Michael Jordan as a colleague is very different from public perceptions of the basketball legend’s fighting spirit.
Hamlin recently appeared on Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s podcast, offering his perspective on how elite athletes like Michael Jordan often shift their priorities and attitudes after retirement. According to Hamlin, this change leads to a softer, more family-oriented demeanor, even in those who were once the most fierce in their field.
“I never had known Michael Jordan during that most intense time of his career. I know him as retired Michael. I know him as family Michael. I know him as my golfing buddy, Michael. So, it’s a little bit different. Um, yeah, he still trash talks quite a bit when we go play golf, but so do I.”
—Denny Hamlin, No. 11 Driver & 23XI Racing Co-Owner
Hamlin credits this transformation to Jordan’s evolving priorities, noting that family life and children make it difficult, if not impossible, to maintain the same level of obsession and intensity that defined his basketball career. While Jordan is now more at ease, both men retain their competitive natures, especially in shared activities like golf, where friendly banter remains a part of their interactions.
Jordan Remains Resolute in Business and Legal Challenges
Although Michael Jordan appears more relaxed away from basketball, his willingness to stand firm when it counts has not faded. Last September, Jordan, along with Hamlin and their team at 23XI Racing, became embroiled in a legal dispute with NASCAR after rejecting its proposed charter agreement. This ongoing conflict has quickly become a talking point throughout the sport, with both Jordan and Hamlin resolute in upholding their team’s interests.
As the legal proceedings continue, 23XI Racing was recently forced to participate as an open charter team at Dover, adding another layer of challenge for the owners and their organization. Despite these setbacks, Hamlin and Jordan are confident that their position will ultimately prevail when the dispute is settled. Their determination and mutual respect underpin both their racing ambitions and their approach to overcoming obstacles.
Looking Ahead for Hamlin, Jordan, and 23XI Racing
Denny Hamlin’s reflection on Michael Jordan’s changed approach to competition underscores the lasting impact of both men not only as competitors but also as business leaders in NASCAR. While Jordan may not exhibit the same intensity he was known for on the basketball court, he remains a significant figure in racing through his partnership with Hamlin. As the playoffs approach and the legal battle with NASCAR continues, their relationship and shared commitment to winning remain in the spotlight, promising more chapters in their evolving story.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How did Denny Hamlin get so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin began racing full-time in the Cup Series in 2006 with Joe Gibbs Racing. Since then, he has become a successful driver with 51 Cup Series victories and three Daytona 500 wins in 2016, 2019, and 2020. Throughout his career, he has also earned millions of dollars.
Q. Did Denny Hamlin and Jordan Fish get married?
A. Denny Hamlin is set to marry Jordan Fish. They had a rough beginning after meeting, but things improved during their second encounter, leading them to start dating in 2007. Despite facing some challenges, they have stayed very close.
Q. How is Denny Hamlin so rich?
A. Denny Hamlin’s net worth is about $65 million. He made over $100 million from his NASCAR career through contracts and winnings. Major companies like FedEx, Jordan Brand, and Toyota endorse him with multi-million dollar deals. He’s also a co-owner of 23XI Racing, which is estimated to be worth over $100 million.
Q. Why was Denny Hamlin dq?
A. Reasons for Hamlin and Busch’s Disqualification at Pocono. Unapproved tape was applied to the front of the cars near the wheel wells.
