From stadiums to sponsorships, the top 10 highest-paid athletes of 2024 are raking in record-breaking sums. Forbes’ annual list reveals the names behind over a billion dollars in combined earnings—spotlighting the stars who’ve turned athletic success into global business empires. Topping the charts are familiar icons like Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James, alongside fresh faces cashing in on massive contracts and growing influence off the field. The rankings highlight more than just talent—they reveal the economics of modern sports at the highest level.
2024 Fast Facts: Forbes Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes
- Top Earner: Cristiano Ronaldo leads the list with $260 million, driven by a massive contract with Saudi club Al Nassr and global endorsements.
- Global Representation: Athletes from 16 countries across 10 different sports made the list, highlighting the increasingly international nature of sports wealth.
- Off-the-Field Power: Endorsements and business ventures made up nearly half of total earnings for several stars, including LeBron James and Lionel Messi.
- Surprise Surge: Golfer Jon Rahm skyrocketed to No. 2 with $218 million, largely due to a blockbuster LIV Golf deal—one of the biggest jumps in list history.
The 10 Highest-Paid Athletes in the World
| Rank | Name | Sport | Country | Total Earnings (USD) | Salary/Winnings (USD) | Endorsements (USD) |
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Football | Portugal | $260 million | $200 million | $60 million |
| 2 | Jon Rahm | Golf | Spain | $218 million | $198 million | $20 million |
| 3 | Lionel Messi | Football | Argentina | $135 million | $65 million | $70 million |
| 4 | LeBron James | Basketball | USA | $128.2 million | $48.2 million | $80 million |
| 5 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | Basketball | Greece | $111 million | $46 million | $65 million |
| 6 | Kylian Mbappé | Football | France | $110 million | $90 million | $20 million |
| 7 | Neymar | Football | Brazil | $108 million | $80 million | $28 million |
| 8 | Karim Benzema | Football | France | $106 million | $100 million | $6 million |
| 9 | Stephen Curry | Basketball | USA | $102 million | $52 million | $50 million |
| 10 | Lamar Jackson | American Football | USA | $100.5 million | $98.5 million | $2 million |