Top Earners and Total Pay
The 2024 Forbes list of the highest paid athletes in the world shows Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and LeBron James leading global earnings, driven by massive salaries and off-field business deals. Ronaldo leads with roughly $275 million, followed by Messi near $130 million, and James above $125 million, with the top 10 athletes earning over $1 billion combined this year Forbes 2024 athlete earnings ranking.
The ranking is based on pretax gross income from salaries, winnings, and off-field earnings such as endorsements, appearances, and business ventures during a specific measurement period, with Forbes publishing the final list after verifying contracts, public filings, and agent interviews. The methodology combines reported base pay from leagues and federations with estimated sponsorship and licensing revenue, adjusted for taxes and agent fees where possible Forbes methodology for athlete earnings.
Earnings Breakdown by Sport
Soccer and Basketball Dominance
Soccer and basketball remain the top-earning sports, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi capturing the first two spots and NBA stars such as LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant filling multiple places on the list Forbes 2024 athlete earnings ranking.
Ronaldo's earnings are boosted by his Saudi Pro League contract and a global portfolio of sponsorships, while Messi's income reflects his move to MLS and long-standing brand deals, and James earns from his NBA salary, media ventures, and investments Forbes 2024 athlete earnings ranking.
Business and Endorsement Drivers
Off-Field Income and Brand Value
Endorsements and business ownership are the main differentiators for the highest paid athletes in the world, with top stars partnering with companies such as Nike, Adidas, PepsiCo, and luxury watchmakers, plus launching personal brands in apparel, media, and investment funds.
LeBron James built a media company and stake in Liverpool FC, Curry expanded his Curry Brand with Under Armour, and Ronaldo commands one of the largest social followings, which translates into premium sponsorship fees and equity deals across fashion, fitness, and consumer goods Forbes 2024 athlete earnings ranking.