In 2024, the financial landscape of professional sports reached unprecedented heights, with athletes securing substantial earnings through salaries, winnings, and endorsements. According to Forbes, the top 10 highest-paid athletes collectively amassed approximately $1.38 billion, reflecting the growing commercialization and global appeal of sports.
Here is a breakdown of these top earners:
**Cristiano Ronaldo** 
The Portuguese soccer star leads the list with total earnings of $260 million, comprising $200 million from his contract with Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League and $60 million from endorsements with brands like Nike and his CR7 merchandise line.
**Jon Rahm** 
The Spanish golfer stands second, earning $218 million. His on-course earnings of $198 million were significantly boosted by his participation in the LIV Golf Tour, complemented by $20 million from endorsements.
**Lionel Messi** 
The Argentine soccer legend earned $135 million, with $65 million from his tenure at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and $70 million from endorsements with companies such as Adidas and Apple.
**LeBron James** 
The NBA icon secured $128.2 million, including a $48.2 million salary from the Los Angeles Lakers and $80 million from endorsements and business ventures, notably his lifetime deal with Nike.
**Giannis Antetokounmpo** 
The Greek Freak earned $111 million, with $46 million from his NBA salary and $65 million from endorsements, including a significant deal with Nike for his signature shoe line.
**Kylian Mbappé** 
The French soccer sensation earned $110 million, comprising $90 million in salary from Paris Saint-Germain and $20 million from endorsements.
**Neymar Jr.**
The Brazilian forward secured $108 million, with $80 million from his contract with Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia and $28 million from endorsements.
**Karim Benzema**
The French striker earned $106 million, including $100 million from his move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia and $6 million from endorsements.
**Stephen Curry**
The NBA sharpshooter earned $102 million, with $52 million from his Golden State Warriors salary and $50 million from endorsements, notably his partnership with Under Armour.
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**Lamar Jackson**
The NFL quarterback rounds out the top ten with $100.5 million, including $98.5 million from his contract with the Baltimore Ravens and $2 million from endorsements.
These figures underscore the immense financial rewards available to top-tier athletes across various sports, driven by lucrative contracts, endorsement deals, and the global commercialization of sports entertainment.These are richest athletes in the year 2024