Top 5 Highest Paid Athletes in 2019
According to Forbes, the top 5 highest paid athletes of 2019 were Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar, with total earnings driven by salary and endorsements. The list reflects a mix of soccer and basketball stars whose contracts and off field deals generated massive income that year. See the full Forbes athlete earnings ranking for details.
The ranking is based on pretax earnings from salary, wages, and endorsements between June 2018 and June 2019. Forbes calculates income from guaranteed contracts, performance bonuses, and off field business activities. The figures are compiled from public contracts, league filings, and interviews with agents and team executives.
Earnings Breakdown and Contract Details
Lionel Messi topped the list with a combination of his FC Barcelona salary and a global endorsement portfolio that includes Adidas and Pepsi. His contract structure included a high base salary and performance incentives tied to titles and individual awards. Details on his deal are covered by Forbes and club financial disclosures.
Cristiano Ronaldo earned significant income from his Juventus salary and a strong endorsement portfolio with Nike, Herbalife, and other brands. Neymar's earnings reflected his Paris Saint-Germain contract and a large social media following that drives endorsement value. Both athletes signed long term deals with guaranteed compensation that exceeded most peers in their sport.
Why These Athletes Earned the Most in 2019
These athletes earned the most because of a combination of elite on field performance, global brand recognition, and lucrative long term contracts. Soccer stars in top European leagues and NBA superstars benefit from massive media rights deals and global sponsorship markets. Their contracts often include clauses for appearance fees, merchandise royalties, and performance bonuses.
Endorsement income depends on social media reach, marketability, and alignment with brand campaigns. The Forbes list highlights how off field business activities can double or triple an athlete's total income compared to salary alone. For more data on athlete contracts and earnings, see the Forbes annual highest paid athletes list.