Cornhole Players Earning: How Much Do Professionals Make?

Cornhole, the backyard game loved at barbecues and tailgates, has exploded into a competitive sport where top players earn serious cash. From sponsored pros to weekend warriors, let’s break down how cornhole players make money, who the highest earners are, and what it takes to turn beanbag tossing into a career—all in simple, easy-to-understand terms.


Cornhole 101: From Backyard Fun to Pro Sport

Cornhole is simple: players toss beanbags at a slanted board with a hole, scoring points for landing on the board (1 point) or sinking the bag (3 points). But what started as a casual game is now a professional sport with leagues, TV deals, and million-dollar prize pools16.

The American Cornhole League (ACL), founded in 2015, is the biggest stage for pros. In 2024, ACL players earned a combined $7.7 million in prize money, with ESPN airing over 300 hours of tournaments. Celebrities like Rob Gronkowski and WWE star Charlotte Flair have even joined pro-am events, boosting the sport’s popularity.


How Do Cornhole Players Make Money? 7 Income Streams

Professional cornhole players don’t just rely on tournaments—they hustle through sponsorships, social media, and more. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Tournament Prize Money

Winning tournaments is the most direct way to earn. Payouts vary:

  • Local events: 200–1,000 for first place.
  • ACL Pro Events: Up to $25,000 for top finisher.
  • ACL World Championships: $25,000 for the champion.

Example: Cheyenne Bubenheim, the ACL’s top female player, earned $77,000 in 2023 while pregnant and practicing daily.

2. Sponsorships & Endorsements

Sponsorships are a game-changer. Companies like Titan Cornhole Bags pay pros to use their gear or wear branded shirts. Top players earn 10,000–50,000 yearly from sponsors.

Example: Adrian Johnson, a pro with 900,000 social media followers, earns steady income from sponsorships and ad revenue.

3. Social Media & Content Creation

YouTube tutorials, TikTok trick shots, and live streams on Twitch can earn players ad revenue and tips. Adrian Johnson makes 3–5 per 1,000 YouTube views.

4. Coaching & Clinics

Pros charge 50–200/hour to coach beginners. Some host group clinics at local parks or events.

5. Selling Custom Gear

Many players design their own beanbags or boards. Custom bags sell for 30–100 per set, while boards go for 150–500.

6. Brand Ambassadorships

Companies pay pros to represent their brands at events. For example, Bud Light once sponsored ACL players Jamie Graham and Matt Guy.

7. Merchandise Sales

Hats, shirts, and stickers with a player’s logo can add thousands to their income. Top sellers make up to $80,000/year.


Who’s the Highest-Paid Cornhole Player?

The title of highest-paid cornhole player goes to Cheyenne Bubenheim, a 23-year-old Floridian. In 2023, she earned 77,000 from tournaments and 20,000+ from sponsorships, even while pregnant. Two years earlier, she made $90,000—a record for ACL players.

Fun Fact: Bubenheim practiced until two days before giving birth and returned to tournaments a week later!

Other top earners include:

  • Jeremiah Ellis: A UPS driver who won $61,458 in 2024.
  • Adrian Johnson: Social media star with nearly 1 million followers.
  • Matt Guy: Once called the “King of Cornhole,” he reportedly earned $36,000/year.

The Reality of Pro Cornhole: Costs and Challenges

While top players thrive, most pros juggle day jobs. Only 20% of ACL players are full-time athletes. Here’s why:

1. Travel Costs

Pros spend 10,000+/year on flights,hotels, and entry fees.

2. Time Commitment

Jeremiah Ellis practices on weekends and vacations while working full-time for UPS. “I feel completely exhausted most times,” he admits.

3. Competition

Younger players with more free time are rising fast. Bubenheim warns: “If you’re not putting in the time, people will pass you”.


How to Become a Pro Cornhole Player

Want to turn pro? Follow these tips from the experts:

  1. Practice Daily: Aim for 85% accuracy on throws.
  2. Compete in Local Tournaments: Start with “blind draw” events to build skills.
  3. Build a Social Media Following: Post tutorials or trick shots to attract sponsors.
  4. Network at ACL Events: Meet sponsors and pros.

The Future of Cornhole Earnings

Cornhole is growing fast! By 2025, experts predict:

  • Prize pools could double as ESPN renews its media deal.
  • College scholarships for cornhole players.
  • More non-endorsement sponsors (think energy drinks or car companies).

Final Thoughts

Cornhole isn’t just a game—it’s a career path for dedicated players. While only a few earn six figures, the sport offers fun, travel, and community. As Cheyenne Bubenheim says: “I’m so lucky this is my job. I’ll play as long as I can!”

Whether you’re tossing bags at a BBQ or dreaming of going pro, remember: practice makes perfect, and every champion started as a beginner.

Note on Earnings Transparency:
The figures and examples provided in this article are based on publicly reported data, interviews, and industry estimates. Actual earnings for cornhole players can vary significantly based on factors such as tournament performance, sponsorship agreements, geographic location, and individual marketability.

For instance:

  • Tournament payouts fluctuate depending on event size, prize pool allocations, and competition levels.
  • Sponsorship deals may change due to brand budgets, player visibility, or shifts in the sport’s popularity.
  • Part-time players often balance cornhole with other income sources, while full-time pros face costs like travel and equipment.

Aspiring players should view these numbers as general benchmarks, not guarantees. Success in professional cornhole requires consistent skill development, strategic networking, and adaptability to the evolving landscape of the sport.

For personalized financial advice, consult a qualified professional before pursuing cornhole as a primary income source.

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