Marcus has been trying to recover from substance abuse problems

Michael Jordan

Michael Jordan and his estranged son, Marcus, have been publicly rebuilding their relationship amid a notable appearance at the White Marlin Open, a prestigious deep-sea fishing competition held off the coast of Maryland.

Aboard the Chicago Bulls legend’s eight million dollar luxury yacht, Catch 23, the father-son duo took part in the intense contest, ultimately finishing second and securing a $400,000 prize in what is widely regarded as the “Super Bowl” of fishing.

It’s known for attracting elite anglers and celebrities from across the country and despite narrowly missing the top spot by just one pound, Jordan‘s team celebrated a significant achievement with the capture of a 71-pound marlin.

Unfortunately for the six-time NBA champion, their catch was outdone only by the 72-pound marlin caught by tournament winner Dan Gough, who earned an eye-watering $4.27 million in prize money.

The 34-year-old Marcus has been through a turbulent period in recent years, marked by personal struggles and a strained relationship with his father which worsened amid his long-term relationship with Larsa Pippen.

Game Recap: Sun vs. Aces (8/10/25)

Further challenges arose in February when Marcus faced legal troubles following an arrest involving DUI, cocaine possession, and resisting arrest shortly after the end of his romance with the ex-wife of Michael Jordan‘s former Bulls teammate, Scottie Pippen.

In the months since, Marcus has taken meaningful steps toward sobriety and reconciliation with his family, and the recent passing of two of his childhood heroes, wrestler Hulk Hogan and Ozzy Ozbourne, inspired Marcus to reach out to his parents and siblings.

“Went THRU IT yesterday,” Marcus wrote at the start of August. “Realizing that 2 icons of my childhood passed this week. Reached out to both my parents & my siblings, cuz life is short and it’s important to spend time with the people you love.”

This weekend, Marcus appeared noticeably healthier and more grounded as he stood alongside his father on the yacht, celebrating their successful catch and deepening their bond.

What is the White Marlin Open, the Super Bowl of fishing?

The White Marlin Open, held annually in Ocean City, Maryland, is the world’s largest billfish tournament. Because it draws top anglers and celebrities, making it a prestigious and competitive event in the sportfishing community.

“The biggest tournament,” Jimmy David said of the competition. “People come from all over. Michael Jordan, all kinds of people.

“I heard they have the Secretary of the Navy over there and all kinds of celebrities. And the best of the best fishing. That’s for sure – the Super Bowl.”

MORE in MARCA

The forgiveness Hulk Hogan asked for before his death | MarcaMARCA

Brad Pitt and his family heartbroken after the death of his mother at 84: “We weren’t ready for you to go” | MarcaMARCA

Jordan’s team, including angler Trey McMillan who landed the winning marlin, was celebrated not only for their catch but also for the camaraderie aboard Catch 23.

While the $400,000 prize he won is a notable windfall, it pales in comparison to Jordan‘s estimated net worth of $3.5 billion.