Top 10 Highest-paid athletes of 2024 according to Forbes

Forbes has unveiled its annual list of the world’s top 10 highest-paid athletes, with this year’s standings marking a historic milestone: for the first time, each athlete earned more than $100 million. Collectively, these ten athletes have amassed a record-breaking $1.38 billion in earnings.

Topping the Forbes list is Cristiano Ronaldo, who, for the fourth time in his career, is the world’s highest-paid athlete. The 39-year-old forward has earned an estimated $260 million, the highest ever for a footballer.

His annual salary at Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr stands at approximately $200 million, complemented by $60 million from endorsements and other off-field activities. Ronaldo’s partnerships include Binance, the fitness app Erakulis, Nike, Herbalife, and Clear Haircare, promoted to his 629 million Instagram followers.

Golfer Jon Rahm follows closely behind Ronaldo with an estimated $218 million in earnings.

The 29-year-old Spaniard signed a lucrative $350 million contract with LIV Golf in December and has earned $6.6 million from seven tournaments in 2024.

Lionel Messi secures the third spot with $135 million, comprising $65 million from on-field earnings and $70 million from endorsements.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, now with Inter Miami, has a base salary of $12 million, with potential for an additional $8.4 million through signing-on fees and bonuses. Messi has recently added Lowe’s to his impressive list of sponsors, which also includes Adidas, Apple, and Konami.

NBA superstar LeBron James ranks fourth, earning $128.2 million. The rest of the top ten includes Giannis Antetokounmpo ($111 million), Kylian Mbappe ($110 million), Neymar ($108 million), Karim Benzema ($106 million), Stephen Curry ($102 million), and Lamar Jackson ($100.5 million).

In addition to the top ten, the Forbes list features three boxers in the top 50: Canelo Alvarez ($85 million), Anthony Joshua ($83 million), and Tyson Fury ($50 million). Canelo is ranked 14th, with Joshua and Fury positioned at 16th and 42nd respectively.