Top 10 highest-paid sportsmen in the world: In today’s global sports arena, performance isn’t the only game-changer – earnings are just as headline-worthy. The spotlight now shines not only on goals scored or titles won, but also on contracts signed, sponsorships secured, and business empires built. In 2024, the earnings of elite athletes have reached record-breaking levels, and the numbers tell a story of influence, ambition, and smart branding.
Leading the way is Cristiano Ronaldo, who has transformed his career with a high-profile move to Saudi Arabia, claiming the title of the highest-paid athlete on the planet. With a staggering $260 million to his name this year, the Portuguese forward shows that his value extends far beyond the football field.
And where there’s Ronaldo, there must be Lionel Messi. Coming in at number three, the Argentine maestro continues to enchant fans–now in the United States with Inter Miami.The age-old rivalry between Messi and Ronaldo, once ignited in El Clásico clashes and Ballon d’Or races, has moved from stadiums to sponsorship charts, continuing to captivate fans and analysts alike.
Also on the list are basketball titans LeBron James and Stephen Curry are proof that the NBA remains a lucrative powerhouse. With massive endorsement portfolios and business ventures beyond the court, they show how athletes can master both sport and commerce.
According to Forbes’ 2024 rankings, the top 10 highest-paid athletes have collectively pulled in a jaw-dropping $1.38 billion–a 24 per cent surge from the previous year. With mega deals, global sponsorships, and equity stakes in booming ventures, these sports icons are not just playing games—they’re shaping economies.
So, who are the names turning athletic greatness into financial domination in 2025? Here’s a look at the ten biggest earners in sports this year–and how they’re turning moments of brilliance into millions.
Lamar Jackson has earned the last spot among the top 10 highest-paid athletes of 2025. Taking control of his own financial destiny, Jackson negotiated his record-breaking deal with the Baltimore Ravens himself, landing an impressive $72.5 million signing bonus in the process. Beyond football, he’s been building his business portfolio with strategic partnerships, including deals with Oakley and StatusPro, and his own fashion brand, Era 8. Altogether, his total income in 2024 surpassed $100 million, marking him as one of the most financially savvy stars in the NFL.
In 2024, French footballer and Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema made headlines by securing a lucrative three-year contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad. With an estimated net worth of $106 million, Benzema ranks among the highest-paid athletes globally. His earnings are further bolstered by endorsement deals with major brands such as EA Sports, Adidas, and Hyundai, contributing significantly to his overall income.
In 2024, Neymar’s move to Al Hilal brought along a wealth of lavish benefits, including access to luxury cars, a private jet, and a lavish mansion. Even though a ligament injury kept him off the field for much of the previous year, his earnings remain sky-high. Beyond football, Neymar expanded his brand by collaborating with Skims, a shapewear and fashion company, launching a new football boot with Puma, and unveiling his own range of mocktails and cocktails.
Kylian Mbappé made headlines when he parted ways with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) last year, wrapping up a $1.3 billion chapter in his career to fulfill his lifelong dream of joining Real Madrid. Beyond his football prowess, Mbappé has cultivated a flourishing business empire, including a production company collaborating with the NBA and securing high-profile endorsement deals with brands such as Nike and Oakley. With earnings approaching $110 million, Mbappé takes the sixth spot on the list of the world’s wealthiest athletes.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, ranked among the top 10 wealthiest athletes in 2024, earned a total of $111 million–$46 million of which came from his NBA salary and $65 million from endorsement deals. Despite facing a difficult season, marked by a calf injury and an early exit from the playoffs, he expanded his brand by launching a production company and debuting his sixth signature Nike shoe, the Giannis Freak 6. He continues to play for the Milwaukee Bucks.
The 40-year-old basketball star recently reaffirmed his dedication to the Los Angeles Lakers by agreeing to a two-year, $97 million contract extension. This deal elevates him to the status of the highest-paid player in NBA history, with over $560 million in future guaranteed earnings. James remains a dominant force on the court, exemplified by his gold medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Messi’s impact on football continues to expand, and his move to Inter Miami has significantly boosted the club’s valuation, surpassing $1 billion, thanks to lucrative sponsorships and a surge in ticket sales. With an incredible eight Ballon d’Ors to his name, he also made history as the first MLS player to record five assists in a single match. Off the pitch, his high-profile endorsement deals with brands like Adidas, Apple, and Konami contribute to his wealth, securing his spot among the world’s wealthiest athletes.
Jon Rahm, who ranks as the second-highest paid athlete this year, made headlines when he signed a massive $350 million deal with LIV Golf. Rahm is also at the helm of his own LIV Golf team, Legion XIII, where he holds a 25 per cent equity stake. His involvement with LIV Golf is clearly proving to be a lucrative venture on multiple fronts.
Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most recognisable names in football, has amassed an estimated $260 million in earnings, securing his spot as the world’s highest-paid athlete. His lucrative $200 million salary with Al Nassr has proven to be a valuable move for the Saudi Pro League. Beyond the field, his immense social media reach has attracted major brand partnerships with companies such as Nike, Binance, and Herbalife, maintaining his strong commercial presence.
