Top 10 Highest Paid Athletes in the World 2024

Have you ever wondered what the world’s richest athletes make in a year? Spoiler alert: it’s way more than most of us make in a lifetime. From global soccer superstars to champions of the basketball court, these athletes not only dominate their sport but also cash in on massive endorsement deals, sponsorships, and personal brands.

In 2024, the numbers are bigger than ever. So, let’s dive into the top 10 highest paid athletes in the world in 2024 and find out just how much money is in the game.

What Does “Highest Paid” Mean?

Before jumping into the list, let’s clear one thing up. When we say “highest paid,” we’re talking about more than just salary or prize money. This includes:

On-field earnings – salary, bonuses, or winnings from competitions.
Off-field earnings – income from endorsements, business ventures, and social media presence.

Athletes today aren’t just players—they’re full-on brands.

Who Made the List?

Let’s break down the 2024 list, starting from number ten all the way to the very top. Some names might surprise you, while others are well-known faces regularly appearing on Forbes’ radar.

10. Kevin Durant – $89.1 Million

NBA superstar Kevin Durant continues to shine both on and off the court. With a massive paycheck from the Phoenix Suns and partnerships with Nike, Coinbase, and his own venture capital firm, Durant is more than a baller—he’s a business mogul.

9. Roger Federer – $95.1 Million

Even though he’s retired from professional tennis, Roger Federer is still cashing in. Despite earning just over $100,000 in prize money last year, he made nearly $95 million from endorsements and business partnerships. Talk about a graceful retirement!

8. Karim Benzema – $106 Million

Moving to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad did wonders for Karim Benzema’s bank account. The French striker pulled in over $100 million in on-field earnings alone, with an extra $6 million from off-field opportunities.

7. Stephen Curry – $100.4 Million

Dubbed “the greatest shooter in NBA history,” Stephen Curry earned over $50 million from his NBA salary and the rest through deals with brands like Under Armour and his own production company.

6. Phil Mickelson – $106 Million

Yes, you read that right. Phil Mickelson, the legendary golfer, is still one of the highest paid athletes thanks to his involvement in the LIV Golf series and endorsement deals. Golf may be a quiet game, but it pays loud.

5. Canelo Álvarez – $110 Million

If there’s one boxer who’s bringing the big bucks consistently, it’s Canelo Álvarez. With pay-per-view events and sponsorships, his punches pack financial heat too.

4. LeBron James – $119.5 Million

Whether it’s through his contract with the Los Angeles Lakers, his empire with SpringHill Company, or his investments in Blaze Pizza and Beats by Dre, LeBron James is proving he’s not just about basketball—he’s about building a legacy.

3. Kylian Mbappé – $120 Million

Fast, skillful, and already a world champion, Kylian Mbappé has become a major icon in football. Most of his earnings came from his massive deal with PSG, with endorsements only adding to the total.

2. Lionel Messi – $135 Million

Even after moving to Inter Miami, Lionel Messi hasn’t slowed down—on the pitch or at the bank. He continues to earn handsomely through sponsorships with brands like Adidas, Apple, and even his own clothing line.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo – $260 Million

And at number one—no surprise here—is Cristiano Ronaldo. With a jaw-dropping $200 million from his contract with Al Nassr and $60 million in endorsements, Ronaldo easily takes the crown as the highest paid athlete in the world in 2024.

What’s Driving These Record Numbers?

So how did we get to a place where athletes are making hundreds of millions a year? A few key trends:

The rise of Saudi sports leagues – Big players like Ronaldo and Benzema joined Saudi Arabian clubs with record-breaking contracts.
Endorsements & Social Media Influence – Today’s athletes have millions of followers, making them goldmines for brands.
Business ventures – Players like LeBron and Durant invest wisely, building long-term wealth beyond game days.

What Can We Learn from These Athletes?

No doubt, these earnings are jaw-dropping. But beyond the big numbers, there’s a valuable lesson: your brand matters. Skills can open the door, but smart choices off the field keep it open.

Let’s take a page out of their playbooks:

Invest in yourself – All these athletes take care of their bodies, minds, and brands.
Diversify – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Many of these pros have investments, businesses, and endorsements.
Consistency pays – Whether it’s showing up every game or crafting content, being consistent is key.

Final Thoughts

It’s pretty inspiring (and a little mind-blowing) to see how much the world’s top athletes make. Whether you’re chasing your own sports dream, building a brand, or just love to know where the money flows, this list shows how passion, skill, and smart business sense can lead to incredible success.

What do you think—did your favorite athlete make the list? And if you had $260 million like Ronaldo, what would you do with it?

Let us know in the comments below!