Top 10 highest-paid athletes in the world in 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo (Twitter/Cristiano Ronaldo)

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese footballer, with his estimated total income reaching a staggering $260 million, has become the world’s highest-paid athlete for the fourth time. With an annual salary of $200 million, a significant portion of this income is attributed to his contract with Al Nassr, a club in the Saudi Pro League. Being the most-followed account on Instagram, Ronaldo’s off-field marketability also contributes significantly to his earnings. His endorsement portfolio includes big corporations like Binance, Erakulis, Nike, Herbalife, Clear Haircare, and Whoop.

2. Jon Rahm, Golf:

Jon Rahm (AP)

With an impressive record of 20 professional victories, Jon Rahm has established himself as a prominent figure in golf. A substantial financial reward of USD 350 million accompanied his decision to align with LIV Golf in December. Besides his approximately USD 6.6 million earnings from the Saudi-supported tour, Rahm also secured a 25% ownership stake in LIV. Furthermore, he was appointed as the captain of LIV’s 13th team, Legion XIII, contributing to his ranking as the second-highest-paid athlete in 2024.

3. Lionel Messi, Soccer:

Lionel Messi (AP)

In addition to his multi-million-dollar salary, Lionel Messi’s move to Inter Miami has brought him a profitable sponsorship deal with Royal Caribbean. Additionally, sponsors like Adidas, Apple, and Konami (among others) have significantly boosted his off-field earnings to a staggering $70 million, solidifying his consistent presence on the list of the highest-paid athletes.

4. LeBron James, Basketball:

LeBron James (AP)

LeBron James, a member of the Los Angeles Lakers, is a $51.4 million player according to Spotrac with four NBA championships, two Olympic medals, and the title of the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Notably, in January, James expanded his portfolio by partnering with DraftKings.

5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Basketball:

Giannis Antetokounmpo (AP)

Giannis Antetokounmpo, a standout power forward in basketball history, has clinched two NBA MVP titles. Beyond his on-court success, he recently ventured into the entertainment industry with his production company debut in January. In February, he secured a partnership with Pepsi’s Starry soft drink. Additionally, Antetokounmpo is set to release his sixth signature sneaker with Nike later this year, solidifying his position as one of the top-earning athletes in 2024.

6. Kylin Mbappé, Soccer:

Kylian Mbappe (Reuters)

Kylian Mbappé’s paycheck of $1.3 billion from Paris Saint-Germain added significantly to his earnings. Additionally, his off-field earnings from a production company that collaborated with the NBA and partnerships with major brands like Nike, Hublot, and Oakley have positioned him as one of the top-earning footballers globally.

7. Neymar Jr., Soccer:

Neymar Jr.

Making a lucrative move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, Neymar Jr. secured a substantial salary package, including perks such as a private jet, a mansion, and more. His earnings were further boosted by signing endorsement deals with Skims, Puma, and Fun Brands, propelling him to the seventh spot among the highest-paid athletes in 2024.

8. Karim Benzema, Soccer:

Karim Benzema (AP)

Karim Benzema, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, left Real Madrid in 2023 to join Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad. Replacing divisions, the move made him one of the highest-paid athletes globally in 2024.

9. Stephen Curry, Basketball:

Stephen Curry (AP)

Renowned as one of the NBA’s all-time greats, Stephen Curry has an annual off-court income of $50 million. His recent partnership with Under Armour, extending into retirement, includes $75 million in stock vested between 2029 and 2034. In addition, the Curry Brand, which has expanded beyond its founder, has enlisted De’Aaron Fox and MiLaysia Fulwiley. With ventures extending to screen work, including a Peacock mockumentary series, Curry has solidified his status as one of the highest-paid athletes.

10. Lamar Jackson, American Football:

Lamar Jackson (AP)

Lamar Jackson, a 27-year-old NFL player, secures a spot in Forbes’ top ten highest-paid athletes for 2024. His $72.5 million signing bonus from the Baltimore Ravens last year propelled him onto the list. Jackson, a quarterback, clinched his second NFL MVP award by leading the Ravens to a 13-4 record and an AFC Central division title. Beyond football, he collaborates with Oakley and StatusPro on the NFL Pro Era virtual reality game. Additionally, Jackson owns various businesses, including a soul food restaurant, a production company, a record label, and a clothing line named Era 8.