As sports continue to command global attention and generate substantial revenue, the earnings of top athletes have reached unprecedented heights. The year 2024 sees a mix of familiar faces and emerging stars on the list of the highest-paid athletes, showcasing not only their prowess in their respective sports but also their growing influence beyond the field. Here’s a look at the top 10 highest-paid athletes in the world for 2024.
List Of Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes In The World 2024
1. Cristiano Ronaldo –$260M
One of the most well-known and prosperous football players in history, Cristiano Ronaldo, never stops making headlines for his incredible wealth off the field in addition to his on-field exploits. After more than 20 years of professional football, Ronaldo has established himself as a global icon and accumulated money that few sportsmen can match. With an estimated net worth of an astounding $260 million as of 2024, Ronaldo is among the highest-paid athletes globally. He is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a forward for and captains both Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr and the Portugal national team.
2. Jon Rahm -$218M
Jon Rahm, whose name is synonymous with greatness in golf, has ascended to the peak of the sport, not only because of his extraordinary talent on the course but also because of his amazing earnings. It is anticipated that Rahm’s earnings have reached $218 million as of the year 2024. This places him among the highest-paid athletes in the world and further solidifies his position as a dominant force in the sport.
3. Lionel Messi -$135M
Often regarded as one of the best football players of all time, Lionel Messi never ceases to amaze people with his incredible skill on the field and his astounding success in the business world. Messi’s estimated net worth as of 2024 is $135 million, which reflects both his global icon status and his ongoing impact on the sports industry.
4. LeBron James -$128.2M
Not only is LeBron James a formidable opponent on the court, but he is also a formidable opponent off the court. He is widely regarded as one of the best basketball players in the history of the game. James continues to dominate the business and sports worlds, sealing his position as one of the most successful athletes in the history of the sport. As of the year 2024, it is estimated that he has earned a total of $128.2 million.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo -$111M
Giannis Antetokounmpo, also referred to as the “Greek Freak,” has emerged as one of the most dominant leaders and most recognizable individuals in the sport of basketball. Antetokounmpo’s rapid climb from a humble beginning in Greece to becoming an NBA superstar is a testament to his incredible talent, hard ethic, and global appeal. As of 2024, it is anticipated that he will have earned a total of $111 million. He is a Greek and Nigerian professional basketball player for the Milwaukee Bucks of the National Basketball Association.
6. Kylian Mbappé -$110M
The tremendous talent and charisma that Kylian Mbappé possesses continue to win over the hearts of people all over the world. He is one of the brightest lights in the world of football. Mbappé has firmly established himself as one of the highest-paid players, with a projected earnings of $110 million as of the year 2024. Additionally, his impact both on and off the pitch continues to rise.
7. Neymar -$108M
In the realm of world football, Neymar do Silva Santos Júnior, who is popularly referred to as Neymar, stands out as one of the most captivating and identifiable characters available. Neymar’s career has been distinguished by brilliant skill, high-profile transfers, and a substantial impact on the landscape of global sports and entertainment. As of the year 2024, it is anticipated that Neymar will have earned a total of $108 million.
8. Karim Benzema -$106M
In the sport of modern football, Karim Benzema, who is widely considered to be among the most skilled and reliable strikers, continues to leave an indelible impression on the sport. Benzema’s journey from a bright talent in Lyon to a famous figure at Real Madrid and now a major player in Saudi Arabia’s Al-Ittihad exemplifies his persistent quality and influence on the international scene. As of 2024, his expected earnings are estimated to be $106 million.
9. Stephen Curry -$102M
With an anticipated earnings of $102 million as of the year 2024, Stephen Curry has secured his position as a basketball hero. He is widely considered as one of the finest shooters in the history of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Curry’s rise from a relatively unknown college prospect to a superstar in the National Basketball Association is a model of greatness, both on and off the court. He is known for the revolutionary impact he has had on the game.
10. Lamar Jackson -$100.5M
The explosive quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson, has left a lasting impression on the NFL with his inventive play style and outstanding accomplishments. With an expected net worth of $100.5 million by 2024, Jackson’s career is proof of his extraordinary talent, revolutionary influence on the sport, and ongoing success in both the on and off the field domains. He is an American football quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League.