As 2024 comes to an end, it’s the perfect moment to look at the athletes who have not only shined in their sports but also earned impressive amounts of money.
This year has been historic, with the top 11 highest-paid athletes each earning over $100 million—a record that has never been seen before.
| Rank | Athlete | Sport | Earnings ($ Millions) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Soccer | 260 |
| 2 | Jon Rahm | Golf | 218 |
| 3 | Lionel Messi | Soccer | 135 |
| 4 | LeBron James | Basketball | 128.2 |
| 5 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | Basketball | 111 |
| 6 | Kylian Mbappé | Soccer | 110 |
| 7 | Neymar | Soccer | 108 |
| 8 | Karim Benzema | Soccer | 106 |
| 9 | Stephen Curry | Basketball | 102 |
| 10 | Lamar Jackson | American Football | 100.5 |
| 11 | Roger Federer | Tennis | 100 |
These athletes have shown incredible talent in their games while also making a big impact off the field, court, or pitch. Through major endorsement deals, huge contracts, and smart business moves, they have changed what it means to be a professional athlete today.
It’s truly inspiring how they manage to balance their sports careers with building their brands and reaching new heights of success.
Cristiano Ronaldo (Soccer)
Cristiano Ronaldo leads the list with an impressive $260 million in earnings. His transfer to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, along with his unmatched endorsement deals, highlights why he remains not only a soccer legend but a worldwide superstar.
Jon Rahm (Golf)
Rahm made a massive $218 million, thanks to his controversial but lucrative move to LIV Golf. This highlights how the golf world has changed dramatically, with money flowing into the sport like never before.
Lionel Messi (Soccer)
With $135 million in earnings, Messi continues to show his dominance on and off the field. His endorsements and continued star power keep him among the most marketable athletes globally.
LeBron James (Basketball)
LeBron James earned $128.2 million, further solidifying his legacy as both a basketball legend and a smart entrepreneur. From dominating the NBA to making an impact in Hollywood and beyond, his influence knows no bounds.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Basketball)
Giannis Antetokounmpo earned $111 million, showing that his impact extends well beyond the NBA. His endorsements and worldwide popularity have grown significantly in recent years.
Kylian Mbappé (Soccer)
Mbappé earned $110 million, showing why he’s considered the future of soccer. His mix of talent, charisma, and endorsement deals ensures his place among the elite
Neymar (Soccer)
With $108 million in earnings, Neymar continues to be a top marketable athlete, combining his talent on the field with impressive business skills.
Karim Benzema (Soccer)
Benzema’s move to the Saudi Pro League earned him $106 million, marking a significant shift in his career and showing how Saudi investments have reshaped soccer economics.
Stephen Curry (Basketball)
With $102 million in earnings, Curry continues to lead on and off the court. His influence in basketball and business remains strong, solidifying his place as one of the NBA’s biggest stars.
Lamar Jackson (American Football)
Rounding out the list, Jackson earned $100.5 million. His new contract with the Baltimore Ravens and growing endorsement deals show he’s a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
Roger Federer (Tennis)
Despite retiring, Federer earned around $100 million from his sponsorships and business ventures, proving his influence goes far beyond the tennis court.