A sampling frequency offset (SFO) estimation method for use in a digital receiver to estimate a correct SFO is disclosed. The method for estimating the SFO in the digital receiver includes the steps of (a) receiving an estimated phase, and comparing a magnitude of the estimated phase with that of a predetermined standard deviation; (b) if the magnitude of the estimated phase is greater than that of the predetermined standard deviation, compulsorily setting the estimated phase to zero, and storing the estimated phase of zero; and (c) calculating an SFO value using the stored phase. Therefore, the method performs zero-forcing on a phase overshoot caused by a ghost, such that a correct SFO can be estimated in the tracking mode.