The sports world in 2024 witnessed unprecedented earnings, driven by transformative league shifts, lucrative endorsements, and the continued rise of global sports markets like Saudi Arabia. According to Forbes, the combined earnings of the top ten most paid athletes totaled $1.38 billion (approximately Ksh178 billion) as of May 19, 2024. The Kenya Times compiled an […]
The sports world in 2024 witnessed unprecedented earnings, driven by transformative league shifts, lucrative endorsements, and the continued rise of global sports markets like Saudi Arabia. According to Forbes, the combined earnings of the top ten most paid athletes totaled $1.38 billion (approximately Ksh178 billion) as of May 19, 2024.
The Kenya Times compiled an in-depth list of the top ten earners and the factors behind their massive income.
Among the key observations in the list is that four out of the top ten athletes benefited from Saudi-backed sports initiatives, indicating the region’s growing dominance.
Golf, American football, and basketball on the other hand continue to produce high earners alongside football’s global stars.
Also, National Basketball Association (NBA’s) duo LeBron James and Stephen Curry exemplify how athletes are building financial empires beyond their sporting careers.
Top ten most paid athletes
Cristiano Ronaldo – $260 Million (Football)
Cristiano Ronaldo retained his position as the highest-paid athlete for the second year running.
His earnings stemmed primarily from his jaw-dropping $200 million annual salary at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr FC, along with sponsorships from brands like Nike and CR7, his personal merchandise line.
His social media presence remains unmatched, allowing him to command millions for promotional posts.
Jon Rahm – $218 Million (Golf)
The Spanish golfer made a massive leap to second place, thanks to his association with LIV Golf, a Saudi-funded league.
He earned substantial signing bonuses and tournament winnings. Rahm’s dominance in major championships, including his 2024 Masters victory, cemented his status as a golfing powerhouse.
Lionel Messi – $135 Million (Football)
After joining MLS side Inter Miami in 2023, Messi’s influence in the U.S. skyrocketed. Beyond his $50 million salary, he earned millions through Apple TV partnerships, Adidas endorsements, and ownership stakes in the league’s revenue-sharing deals.
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His U.S. debut became a landmark moment for football’s growth in North America.
LeBron James – $128.2 Million (Basketball)
LeBron’s consistency in earnings stems from his $44 million salary with the Los Angeles Lakers and his thriving off-court ventures.
His production company, SpringHill Entertainment, scored deals with Netflix and Apple, while his lifetime partnership with Nike remains one of the most lucrative endorsement deals in sports history.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – $111 Million (Basketball)
The “Greek Freak” saw his earnings rise significantly after signing a three-year, $186 million contract extension with the Milwaukee Bucks, which saw him complete the first half of the top ten most paid athletes.
Endorsements from brands like JBL and Nike have also elevated his financial standing. Giannis’s global appeal has been a boon for basketball’s outreach to European and African markets.
Kylian Mbappé – $110 Million (Football)
Mbappé’s $72 million salary at Paris Saint-Germain, coupled with endorsements from Nike and EA Sports, placed him among the top earners.
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His vocal stance on player rights and negotiations for more autonomy in football contracts continue to set him apart as a business-savvy athlete.
Neymar – $108 Million (Football)
Neymar’s move to Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League added significantly to his earnings.
He signed deals with Puma and various Brazilian companies that leverage his cultural significance. Despite injuries, Neymar remains a global marketing icon.
Karim Benzema – $106 Million (Football)
Benzema followed Ronaldo to the Saudi league in 2024, joining Al-Ittihad. His $100 million annual salary and bonuses made him one of the wealthiest players of the year and among the most paid.
Benzema’s Ballon d’Or-winning reputation continues to resonate globally, boosting his sponsorship deals.
Stephen Curry – $102 Million (Basketball)
The Golden State Warriors’ star earned $48 million in salary and endorsements worth $54 million. Curry’s partnership with Under Armour has expanded into equity ownership, making him an influential figure in sportswear innovation.
Lamar Jackson – $100.5 Million (American Football)
Lamar Jackson’s record-breaking $260 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens brought him into the top 10. With endorsements from companies like Bose and Oakley, Jackson’s earnings highlight the growing financial power of the NFL.
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