Top Ranked Highest Paid Athletes Worldwide
The latest Forbes global athlete earnings report lists Cristiano Ronaldo as the highest paid athlete worldwide, with estimated total earnings of approximately $275 million, driven by a massive social media following and a lucrative contract with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. Lionel Messi follows closely, earning an estimated $130 million, with a significant portion coming from his contract with Inter Miami and his international brand partnerships.
Other top earners include Lionel Messi's peers in global soccer and the NBA, with Dak Prescott, Stephen Curry, and LeBron James consistently ranking among the top five. The rankings highlight a shift where soccer stars from the Saudi Pro League and the NFL command massive guaranteed money, often surpassing the traditional NBA and MLB top earners in total annual income.
Earnings Breakdown by Sport and League
In the NFL, the highest paid athletes are quarterbacks with average annual salaries exceeding $50 million, led by Dak Prescott's record contract with the Dallas Cowboys, which guarantees over $160 million. The NBA features Stephen Curry and LeBron James, whose earnings combine massive player salaries with extensive business ventures, including Curry's ownership stake in the Golden State Warriors and James's media company.
In soccer, Cristiano Ronaldo's deal with Al Nassr is reported to be worth over $200 million per year, making him the single highest paid athlete in the world. This is followed by the Premier League and La Liga, where players like Mohamed Salah and Karim Benzema earn substantial wages, though their total income is lower than the Saudi Pro League's top stars due to smaller endorsement deals.
Sources of Income for the Highest Paid Athletes
Endorsements and Business Ventures
Endorsements remain a critical income stream, with athletes like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo earning tens of millions from deals with brands such as Adidas, Pepsi, and Clear Shampoo. Off-field businesses, including media companies, fragrance lines, and investment funds, often double the earnings from playing salaries alone.
Investment and Ownership Stakes
Many top earners invest heavily in technology and sports startups. LeBron James, for example, has a stake in Fenway Sports Group and multiple media companies, while Tom Brady has invested in numerous health and wellness brands. These ventures provide long-term income that extends well past their playing careers.
Contract Structures and Guaranteed Money
Modern contracts for the highest paid athletes feature large guaranteed sums, signing bonuses, and no-trade clauses. In the NFL, Dak Prescott's deal includes a record $140 million guaranteed at signing, while in soccer, Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr contract reportedly includes a $200 million annual salary with full guaranteed payments.
Global Revenue and Media Rights
Global media rights deals for leagues like the NFL and the Premier League distribute billions in revenue to players, ensuring that the highest paid athletes continue to earn from broadcast rights and international streaming. The Saudi Pro League's investment model, backed by the Public Investment Fund, has fundamentally altered the salary landscape, allowing clubs to offer contracts that exceed those of traditional European leagues.