In the high-stakes world of professional sports, the allure of fame and fortune drives many athletes to push the boundaries of human performance. By 2024, the landscape of wealth among athletes has evolved, reflecting not only their prowess on the field but also their savvy business acumen off it. This list of the richest athletes in the world for 2024 highlights individuals who have excelled in their respective sports and capitalized on endorsement deals, business ventures, and strategic investments.
Richest Athletes in the World
From the iconic superstars of global sports like soccer and basketball to trailblazers in emerging markets, these athletes exemplify the fusion of athletic excellence and financial success. Let’s delve into the stories and figures behind the world’s wealthiest sports figures of 2024.
1 Cristiano Ronaldo(Footballer)
Born: 5 February 1985 (age 39 years), Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, Funchal, Portugal
Siblings: Hugo dos Santos Aveiro, Katia Aveiro, Elma dos Santos Aveiro
Children: Angel dos Santos Aveiro
Dates joined: 2023 (Al-Nassr FC), 2021 (Manchester United F.C.), MORE
Height: 1.87 m
Partner: Georgina Rodríguez (2016–)
In 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo stands at the pinnacle of financial success among athletes, securing his position as the top richest athlete in the world with an astounding total earnings of $650 million. Renowned for his exceptional skills on the soccer field, Ronaldo has consistently demonstrated an unmatched ability to score goals and win titles. However, his financial success extends far beyond his athletic prowess.
Ronaldo’s earnings come from a combination of his lucrative salary playing for top-tier clubs, significant endorsement deals with global brands, and a diverse portfolio of business ventures. His brand, CR7, encompasses a range of products from clothing and footwear to fragrances, further cementing his status as a global icon. Additionally, Ronaldo has invested in various sectors, including hospitality and fitness, ensuring a steady stream of income outside of his soccer career.
This extraordinary financial achievement underscores Ronaldo’s dual legacy as not only one of the greatest soccer players of all time but also a shrewd businessman. As we explore the financial standings of the world’s top athletes in 2024, Ronaldo’s $260 million earnings highlight the incredible potential for athletes to transcend their sports and achieve monumental financial success.
2 Jon Rahm(Spanish professional golfer)
Born: 10 November 1994 (age 29 years), Barrika, Spain
Partner: Kelley Cahill (2016–)
Height: 1.88 m
Parents: Edorta Rahm, Ángela Rodríguez
Children: 2
College: Arizona State University
In 2024, Jon Rahm has emerged as one of the wealthiest athletes globally, boasting total earnings of $218 million. As a prominent figure in the world of golf, Rahm’s rise to financial prominence is a testament to his exceptional talent on the golf course and his strategic endeavors off it.
Rahm’s earnings are primarily driven by his success in major golf tournaments, where his skill and consistency have made him a formidable competitor. Winning prestigious titles and securing top finishes have not only brought him significant prize money but also increased his visibility and marketability. This visibility has translated into lucrative endorsement deals with major brands in sportswear, equipment, and other sectors, significantly boosting his income.
Jon Rahm’s $218 million earnings in 2024 highlight his status as a leading figure in golf and a savvy businessman. His success story underscores the potential for athletes to achieve substantial financial success through a combination of sporting excellence and astute financial management.
3 Lionel Messi(Argentine Footballer)
Born: 24 June 1987 (age 36 years), Rosario, Argentina
Current teams: Inter Miami CF (#10 / Forward), Argentina national football team (#10 / Forward)
Height: 1.7 m
Spouse: Antonela Roccuzzo (m. 2017)
Dates joined: 2023 (Inter Miami CF), MORE
Parents: Celia María Cuccittini, Jorge Messi
Siblings: Maria Sol Messi, Rodrigo Messi, Matias Messi
Lionel Messi remains one of the most recognizable and successful athletes globally, with total earnings of $600 million, securing his place among the top richest athletes in the world. Messi’s financial standing is a testament to his extraordinary talent on the soccer field and his ability to leverage his brand and image for lucrative partnerships and endorsements.
A legendary figure in the world of soccer, Messi’s career has been marked by numerous accolades and records, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time. His on-field success, combined with his charisma and marketability, has attracted endorsements from leading brands across various industries, including sportswear, telecommunications, and luxury goods.
Additionally, Messi has ventured into entrepreneurship, investing in businesses ranging from technology startups to hospitality ventures. These strategic investments have further bolstered his financial portfolio and diversified his income streams beyond his soccer salary and endorsements.
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4 Lebron James(American basketball player)
Born: 30 December 1984 (age 39 years), Akron, Ohio, United States
Current team: Los Angeles Lakers (#23 / Power forward, Small forward)
Spouse: Savannah James (m. 2013)
Dates joined: 2021 (Team LeBron), 2018 (Los Angeles Lakers), MORE
Net worth: 120 crores USD (2024) Forbes
Height: 2.06 m
In 2024, LeBron James continues to solidify his position among the world’s richest athletes, showcasing an impressive blend of athletic excellence, business acumen, and influential branding. With total earnings reaching remarkable heights, James’s financial success is a testament to his multifaceted career and strategic investments.
LeBron James is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. His career with the NBA has been marked by numerous championships, MVP awards, and All-Star selections. His performance on the court has earned him substantial salaries and bonuses from contracts with teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers.
In 2024, LeBron James’s earnings reflect his diverse income streams and savvy financial management, making him one of the richest athletes in the world. His wealth not only highlights his success on the basketball court but also his ability to leverage his brand and influence into substantial financial gains.
5 Giannis Antetokounmpo(Greek-Nigerian basketball player)
Born: 6 December 1994 (age 29 years), Athens, Greece
Current team: Milwaukee Bucks (#34 / Power forward, Center)
Height: 2.11 m
Wingspan: 2.21 m
Partner: Mariah Riddlesprigger
Parents: Charles Antetokounmpo, Veronica Antetokounmpo
In 2024, Giannis Antetokounmpo, known as “The Greek Freak,” stands out as one of the world’s richest athletes, showcasing an exceptional combination of basketball prowess, marketability, and astute financial decisions.
Giannis Antetokounmpo has established himself as one of the premier players in the NBA. His career with the Milwaukee Bucks has been highlighted by multiple MVP awards, All-Star selections, and an NBA championship. His dominating presence on the court has earned him substantial contracts, including a supermax extension with the Bucks, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league.
In 2024, Giannis Antetokounmpo’s earnings reflect his dominance on the court and his savvy off it, placing him among the top richest athletes in the world. His financial success is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and ability to leverage his athletic fame into substantial economic gains.
6 Kylian Mbappe(French footballer)
Born: 20 December 1998 (age 25 years), 19th arrondissement, Paris, France
Current team: France national football team (#10 / Forward)
Salary: 7.2 crores EUR (2024)
Dates joined: 2018 (Paris Saint-Germain F.C.), MORE
Parents: Fayza Lamari, Wilfried Mbappé
Siblings: Ethan Mbappé, Jirès Kembo Ekoko
Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
In 2024, Kylian Mbappe has solidified his position as one of the top richest athletes in the world, thanks to his exceptional talent on the soccer field, lucrative endorsements, and smart financial ventures.
Kylian Mbappe is widely regarded as one of the most electrifying soccer players of his generation. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the French national team, Mbappe has amassed numerous accolades, including multiple Ligue 1 titles, domestic cups, and a FIFA World Cup victory in 2018. His speed, skill, and goal-scoring ability have made him one of the most sought-after players in the world, commanding substantial salaries and bonuses.
Mbappe’s marketability extends far beyond the soccer pitch. He has secured high-profile endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, where he has a signature line, and other global giants such as Hublot, EA Sports, and Good Gout. These partnerships significantly enhance his income, leveraging his global appeal and star power.
7 Neymar(Brazillian footballer)
Born: 5 February 1992 (age 32 years), Mogi das Cruzes, State of São Paulo, Brazil
Current teams: Al Hilal SFC (#10 / Forward), Brazil national football team (#10 / Forward), Brazil
Full name: Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior
Height: 1.75 m
Salary: 10 crores EUR (2024)
Parents: Neymar Santos Sr., Nadine Gonçalves
Siblings: Rafaella Santos
In 2024, Neymar Jr. remains one of the top richest athletes in the world, a testament to his exceptional soccer talent, high-profile endorsements, and astute business ventures.
Neymar Jr., known for his flair, creativity, and goal-scoring prowess, has had a highly successful career with clubs like Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). He has won numerous titles, including domestic leagues, cups, and the UEFA Champions League. His standout performances have earned him substantial salaries and bonuses, making him one of the highest-paid players in the sport.
Neymar’s marketability is unparalleled, attracting endorsements from major global brands. His deals with companies like Nike (previously), Puma (current), Red Bull, Gillette, and Beats by Dre have significantly boosted his earnings. These partnerships leverage his global appeal and influence, extending his financial success beyond his playing career.
8 Stephan Curry(American basketball player)
Born: 14 March 1988 (age 36 years), Akron, Ohio, United States
Parents: Dell Curry, Sonya Curry
Height: 1.88 m
Current team: Golden State Warriors (#30 / Point guard)
Spouse: Ayesha Curry (m. 2011)
Siblings: Seth Curry, Sydel Curry
College: Davidson (2006–2009)
Stephen Curry is recognized as one of the top richest athletes in the world, showcasing a blend of extraordinary basketball talent, lucrative endorsements, and strategic business ventures.
Stephen Curry, a pivotal figure in the NBA, has revolutionized the game with his exceptional shooting ability, particularly from beyond the three-point line. His career with the Golden State Warriors has been marked by multiple NBA championships, MVP awards, and numerous All-Star selections. His on-court success has earned him substantial contracts, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league.
Beyond endorsements, Curry has demonstrated a keen business acumen. He has ventured into various entrepreneurial activities, including co-founding the media company Unanimous Media, which focuses on family, faith, and sports content. Curry has also made strategic investments in tech startups and companies within the sports and wellness industries, further diversifying his income streams and ensuring long-term financial stability.
9 Karim Benzema(French footballer)
Born: 19 December 1987 (age 36 years), Lyon, France
Current team: Al-Ittihad Club (#9 / Forward)
Spouse: Cora Gauthier (m. 2016)
Salary: 80 lakhs GBP (2021)
Dates joined: 2023 (Al-Ittihad Club), MORE
Height: 1.85 m
Parents: Wahida Djebbara, Hafid Benzema
Karim Benzema is recognized as one of the top richest athletes in the world, showcasing his exceptional talent on the soccer field, lucrative endorsements, and strategic financial decisions.
Karim Benzema, known for his incredible goal-scoring ability and playmaking skills, has had an illustrious career with Real Madrid and, more recently, Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. His tenure at Real Madrid was marked by multiple La Liga titles, UEFA Champions League victories, and numerous individual accolades, including the prestigious Ballon d’Or. His performances have earned him substantial salaries and bonuses, making him one of the highest-paid players in the sport.
Benzema’s marketability has led to several high-profile endorsement deals. He has partnered with major brands such as Adidas, Hyundai, and EA Sports, significantly boosting his income. These endorsements capitalize on his global recognition and appeal, further enhancing his financial standing.
10 Lamar Jackson(American football quarterback)
Born: 7 January 1997 (age 27 years), Pompano Beach, Florida, United States
Current team: Baltimore Ravens (#8 / Quarterback)
Education: Boynton Beach Community High School (2012–2015), University of Louisville
Weight: 98 kg
Height: 1.88 m
Parents: Felicia Jones, Lamar Jackson Sr.
In 2024, Lamar Jackson is among the top richest athletes in the world, thanks to his outstanding performance in the NFL, substantial endorsement deals, and strategic business ventures. Lamar Jackson, known for his exceptional speed, agility, and playmaking ability, has made a significant impact as the quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. He has been an NFL MVP, consistently leading his team to playoff appearances and breaking records for rushing yards by a quarterback. His electrifying performances have secured him lucrative contracts, including a record-breaking extension with the Ravens, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league.
Lamar Jackson has also ventured into the business world, making strategic investments and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities. His business interests include technology startups, fitness, and real estate. These investments diversify his income streams and ensure long-term financial stability beyond his football career.