The world of sports is not just about competition and glory; it’s also about big money! The highest-paid athletes in the world have earned staggering amounts through salaries, bonuses, and endorsement deals. According to Forbes’ 2024 list, every athlete in the top 10 has earned over $100 million, with a combined total of $1.38 billion!
Here Are Top 10 Highest Paid Athletes in the World
10. Lamar Jackson (American Football – $100.5M)
The Baltimore Ravens’ star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, is the highest-paid player in the NFL in 2024. His massive $72.5M signing bonus played a big role in his earnings. Apart from his NFL salary, he also has endorsement deals with Oakley and StatusPro and owns businesses, including a record label, production company, and a clothing line (Era 8).
Lamar Jackson – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $100.5M |
| On-Field Earnings | $98.5M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $2M |
9. Stephen Curry (Basketball – $102M)
A four-time NBA champion, Stephen Curry continues to dominate both on and off the court. His Under Armour lifetime deal gives him stock worth $75M! His ventures include a media company and film production, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world!
Stephen Curry – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $102M |
| On-Field Earnings | $52M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $50M |
8. Karim Benzema (Soccer – $106M)
After winning the Ballon d’Or in 2022, Karim Benzema moved from Real Madrid to Saudi club Al-Ittihad, securing a $100M annual salary. His move made him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world in 2024!
Karim Benzema – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $106M |
| On-Field Earnings | $100M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $6M |
Read More : Top 10 Best Players FIFA Club World Cup
7. Neymar Jr. (Soccer – $108M)
The Brazilian superstar left PSG for Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, earning a massive $80M salary. He also signed endorsement deals with Puma, Skims, and Fun Brands, keeping him among the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Neymar Jr. – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $108M |
| On-Field Earnings | $80M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $28M |
6. Kylian Mbappé (Soccer – $110M)
PSG’s biggest star, Kylian Mbappé, continues to break records with his earnings. His $90M salary makes him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, and he also has endorsement deals with Nike, Hublot, and Oakley.
Kylian Mbappé – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $110M |
| On-Field Earnings | $90M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $20M |
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Basketball – $111M)
The Greek Freak has dominated the NBA and is cashing in big. His new Pepsi partnership, upcoming Nike sneaker release, and his role in Hollywood productions have made him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $111M |
| On-Field Earnings | $46M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $65M |
Also Read : Top 10 Best First Basemen of All Time
4. LeBron James (Basketball – $128.2M)
At 39 years old, LeBron James remains a money-making machine! With NBA salaries, endorsement deals (Nike, Beats, Pepsi), and business ventures, he is one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
LeBron James – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $128.2M |
| On-Field Earnings | $48.2M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $80M |
3. Lionel Messi (Soccer – $135M)
After moving to Inter Miami, Messi’s earnings skyrocketed with a $65M salary and $70M in sponsorships from Adidas, Apple, and Konami. He remains one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Lionel Messi – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $135M |
| On-Field Earnings | $65M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $70M |
2. Jon Rahm (Golf – $218M)
Jon Rahm shocked the golf world by joining LIV Golf in 2023 for a record $350M deal. His 25% ownership stake in a LIV Golf team has made him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world!
Jon Rahm – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $218M |
| On-Field Earnings | $198M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $20M |
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer – $260M)
The king of football earnings, Cristiano Ronaldo tops the list of highest-paid athletes in the world! His $200M salary at Al-Nassr and $60M from sponsorships (Nike, Binance, Herbalife) keep him at the top!
Cristiano Ronaldo – Earnings Breakdown
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Earnings | $260M |
| On-Field Earnings | $200M |
| Off-Field Earnings | $60M |
Read More : Top 10 Best Super Middleweight Boxers
