The top 50 highest-paid athletes in the world have set a new record for earnings, totaling $3.88 billion in the past year. This marks the fourth consecutive year of record-breaking earnings for these athletes, with a significant increase from previous years. The top 11 athletes on the list each earned more than $100 million, with two athletes already reaching billionaire status.
Some notable highlights from this year’s list include Cristiano Ronaldo leading the pack with $260 million in earnings, largely thanks to his contract with club Al Nassr. Golfer Jon Rahm follows closely behind with $218 million, the highest total ever for a golfer. Canelo Álvarez earned $85 million, showcasing success both in the ring and in business ventures outside of boxing.
The average age of athletes on the list has decreased to 31.2, with more young athletes making their mark due to new contract rules in the NBA and large signing bonuses in the NFL. The United States remains the most represented country in the top 50, with 29 American athletes making the list. The NBA is the most represented sport, with 19 players, followed by the NFL, soccer, and golf.
This year’s list includes six athletes who are 39 years or older, demonstrating that age is no barrier to earning top dollar in the world of sports. Two athletes on the list, Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James, rank among the top five earners, with estimated earnings of $260 million and $128.2 million respectively. Additionally, two athletes on the list have reached billionaire status during their playing careers.
Despite the success of male athletes, there are no female athletes on this year’s list. Serena Williams, who made the list last year, is now retired and no longer eligible. Only a few women have made the top 50 list in recent years, including tennis stars Maria Sharapova, Li Na, and Naomi Osaka. The list captures income earned by athletes between May 1, 2023, and May 1, 2024, showcasing the impressive earnings and achievements of the top athletes in the world.
