List of Top 10 Highest Paid Sports Players in the World in 2024
The realm of professional sports continues to shatter boundaries, with athletes’ earnings soaring to unprecedented heights. In a historic milestone, Forbes’ recently unveiled list of the world’s top-earning athletes for 2024 showcases a remarkable feat – each of the elite ten has amassed over $100 million, collectively amassing an astounding $1.38 billion. This staggering figure surpasses the previous year’s record by a staggering 24%, underscoring the ever-increasing financial prowess of sports icons.
Methodology: Decoding the Rankings
To curate this prestigious list, Forbes employed a meticulous approach, conducting in-depth interviews with industry insiders, meticulously analyzing news reports, and scrutinizing salary and income databases spanning the period from May 1, 2023, to May 1, 2024. This rigorous methodology ensures an accurate representation of the athletes’ earnings, encompassing both on-field and off-field revenues.
The Sovereign Wealth Fund’s Profound Impact
One of the most notable aspects of this year’s rankings is the profound influence of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) on the earnings of several athletes. The fund’s financial backing has propelled four athletes into the top ten, highlighting the Kingdom’s strategic investments in the sports realm.
Cristiano Ronaldo: The Undisputed Earnings Titan
Claiming the coveted top spot for the fourth time, Cristiano Ronaldo emerges as the highest-paid athlete globally, with a staggering $260 million in earnings. The Portuguese soccer superstar’s colossal income can be attributed to his lucrative contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, which guarantees him an annual salary of $200 million, supplemented by various agreements that could potentially elevate his total earnings to an unprecedented $200 million.
Ronaldo’s unparalleled marketability off the field further cements his financial dominance. As the most-followed account on Instagram, he commands a formidable endorsement portfolio featuring prominent brands such as Binance, Erakulis, Nike, Herbalife, Clear Haircare, and Whoop.
Jon Rahm: The Golfing Prodigy’s Lucrative Leap
Securing the second position on the esteemed list is Jon Rahm, the golfing prodigy whose decision to align with LIV Golf in December 2023 has yielded a financial windfall. In addition to his approximate $6.6 million earnings from the Saudi-supported tour, Rahm secured a 25% ownership stake in LIV and was appointed as the captain of LIV’s 13th team, Legion XIII. Coupled with his impressive record of 20 professional victories, Rahm’s total earnings for 2024 soar to an astonishing $218 million.
Lionel Messi: The Argentine Maestro’s Multifaceted Riches
Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer icon, claims the third spot with earnings of $135 million. His move to Inter Miami has not only elevated the profile of the MLS but also garnered him a lucrative sponsorship deal with Royal Caribbean. Complementing his substantial on-field earnings, Messi’s off-field income of $70 million is bolstered by endorsements from renowned brands like Adidas, Apple, and Konami, solidifying his consistent presence among the highest-paid athletes.
LeBron James: The NBA Titan’s Multifaceted Portfolio
LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers superstar, secures the fourth position with earnings of $128.2 million. As a $51.4 million player according to Spotrac, James’ on-court achievements, including four NBA championships, two Olympic medals, and the title of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, have undoubtedly contributed to his financial success. However, his off-court ventures have equally played a pivotal role, with his recent partnership with DraftKings expanding his already diverse portfolio.
Giannis Antetokounmpo: The Greek Freak’s Multifaceted Endeavors
Giannis Antetokounmpo, the “Greek Freak” and a standout power forward in basketball history, claims the fifth spot with earnings of $111 million. Beyond his on-court success, which includes two NBA MVP titles, Antetokounmpo has ventured into the entertainment industry with the debut of his production company in January 2024. Additionally, he secured a partnership with Pepsi’s Starry soft drink in February and is set to release his sixth signature sneaker with Nike later this year, solidifying his position as one of the top-earning athletes.
Kylian Mbappé: The French Phenom’s Impending Windfall
Kylian Mbappé, the French soccer sensation, occupies the sixth position with earnings of $110 million. While his on-field earnings of $90 million are impressive, his imminent move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid is poised to significantly boost his financial standing. Reports indicate that Mbappé will receive a staggering $162 million sign-on fee upon joining the Spanish giants, further cementing his status as one of the highest-paid athletes globally.
Neymar: The Brazilian Superstar’s Saudi Sojourn
Neymar, the Brazilian soccer superstar, ranks seventh with earnings of $108 million. His lucrative move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League in August 2023 secured him a substantial two-year contract worth $175 million, including perks such as a private jet and a mansion. Additionally, his endorsement deals with Skims, Puma, and Fun Brands have contributed significantly to his off-field earnings.
Karim Benzema: The Ballon d’Or Winner’s Saudi Odyssey
Karim Benzema, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, secures the eighth position with earnings of $106 million. After leaving Real Madrid in 2023, Benzema joined Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, propelling him into the ranks of the highest-paid athletes globally.
Stephen Curry: The NBA Legend’s Multifaceted Empire
Stephen Curry, renowned as one of the NBA’s all-time greats, claims the ninth spot with earnings of $102 million. While his on-court income of $52 million is substantial, Curry’s off-court ventures have significantly contributed to his financial success. His recent partnership with Under Armour, extending into retirement, includes $75 million in stock vested between 2029 and 2034. Additionally, the Curry Brand, which has expanded beyond its founder, has enlisted De’Aaron Fox and MiLaysia Fulwiley. Curry’s ventures extend to the screen, including a Peacock mockumentary series, solidifying his status as a multifaceted entrepreneur.
Lamar Jackson: The NFL Prodigy’s Record-Breaking Deal
Lamar Jackson, the 27-year-old NFL quarterback, rounds out the top ten with earnings of $100.5 million. His $72.5 million signing bonus from the Baltimore Ravens last year propelled him onto the list, as he led the team to a 13-4 record and an AFC Central division title, clinching his second NFL MVP award. Beyond football, Jackson collaborates with Oakley and StatusPro on the NFL Pro Era virtual reality game and owns various businesses, including a soul food restaurant, a production company, a record label, and a clothing line named Era 8.
The Expanding Horizons of Athlete Earnings
Extending the scope beyond the top ten, the list unveils a diverse array of athletes from various sports disciplines, each carving their path to financial success.
At the eleventh position, Joe Burrow, the NFL quarterback, amassed earnings of $100 million, closely followed by Kevin Durant, the NBA superstar, with $93.3 million.
Shohei Ohtani, the MLB phenomenon, secured the thirteenth spot with earnings of $85.3 million, while Canelo Alvarez, the boxing icon, matched his earnings at $85 million.
Patrick Mahomes, the NFL’s prolific quarterback, rounds out the top fifteen with earnings of $84.4 million, although his lucrative contract extension with the Kansas City Chiefs is expected to propel him higher in the rankings in the coming years.
The Enduring Allure of Endorsements and Entrepreneurship
While on-field earnings remain a significant contributor to athletes’ financial prowess, the enduring allure of endorsements and entrepreneurial ventures has become increasingly evident. Numerous athletes on the list have leveraged their global recognition to forge lucrative partnerships with renowned brands, diversifying their income streams and solidifying their financial legacies.
Moreover, the emergence of athlete-owned production companies, clothing lines, and investments in various industries underscores the entrepreneurial spirit that permeates the world of professional sports. These endeavors not only generate substantial revenue but also pave the way for athletes to establish enduring brands that transcend their playing careers.
The Evolving Landscape of Sports Financing
The influence of sovereign wealth funds, such as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, on the earnings of top athletes cannot be overstated. Their strategic investments in sports leagues and teams have disrupted the traditional financial dynamics, creating new opportunities for athletes to secure unprecedented contracts and endorsement deals.
Furthermore, the rise of alternative sports leagues, like LIV Golf, has introduced a new paradigm in athlete compensation, challenging the established norms and fostering a more competitive landscape. As these developments unfold, the financial trajectories of athletes are poised to undergo significant transformations, potentially reshaping the entire sports industry.
Conclusion: Redefining the Boundaries of Athletic Earnings
The Forbes list of the world’s highest-paid athletes in 2024 is a testament to the remarkable achievements and financial prowess of these sporting icons. From soccer superstars to basketball legends, golf prodigies to NFL quarterbacks, these athletes have not only excelled in their respective disciplines but have also mastered the art of leveraging their global fame to amass extraordinary wealth.
As the sports industry continues to evolve, driven by innovative financing models, the influx of sovereign wealth funds, and the entrepreneurial spirit of athletes, the boundaries of athletic earnings are being redefined. The future promises even greater financial opportunities for those who can captivate audiences, forge strategic partnerships, and capitalize on their brand power.
In the ever-changing landscape of professional sports, one thing remains constant: the relentless pursuit of excellence, both on and off the field, paving the way for athletes to etch their names not only in the annals of sporting history but also in the realm of financial success.