TEMPO.CO, Jakarta – The world’s highest-paid athletes are a constant source of fascination for many. Their enormous wealth stems not just from salaries and winning prizes, but also from lucrative endorsement deals, sponsorships, and various business ventures. These sporting icons, from soccer superstars to golf champions, have amassed incredible wealth thanks to their achievements and immense popularity.
According to Forbes, here is a breakdown of the top 8 earners in the world of sports, with soccer players dominating the list:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary footballer, has secured his position as the world’s highest-paid athlete in 2024, boasting an astounding annual income of $260 million (approximately Rp4.16 trillion). A major chunk of this income, $200 million, comes from his lucrative playing contract with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr in the Pro League.
Off the pitch, Ronaldo amplifies his earnings with an impressive $60 million from endorsements. He partners with top brands like Herbalife, Binance, Clear, and enjoys a lifetime deal with Nike. Additionally, his ventures in clothing lines, accessories, hotels, and fitness centers contribute significantly to his remarkable financial success.
2. John Rahm
John Rahm, the Spanish golfer, comes second with a total income of US$218 million or about Rp3.48 trillion. His on-field prowess generates US$198 million, while endorsements and sponsorships bring in an additional US$20 million.
3. Lionel Messi
Another soccer icon, Lionel Messi, takes the third spot with US$135 million or Rp2.16 trillion in annual earnings. Messi’s playing salary contributes US$65 million, while his impressive portfolio of endorsements brings in a further US$70 million.
4. LeBron James
The fourth most expensive athlete in the world is the famous basketball player, LeBron James with US$128.2 million or Rp2.1 trillion in annual income. The LA Lakers forward earns US$48.2 million on the court, while his various endorsements and business ventures contribute a significant US$80 million off the court.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo, another NBA star, follows closely at number five with a total income of US$111 million or approximately Rp 1.8 trillion. He earns US$46 million on the court and US$65 million off it.
6. Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe, the Parisian prodigy of Paris Saint-Germain, represents the next generation of footballing superstars. He occupies the sixth position with a total income of US$110 million or approximately Rp1.8 trillion. His earnings split is US$90 million from his playing career and US$20 million from endorsements with brands like Nike and Hublot.
7. Neymar Jr.
Known for his dazzling footwork and electrifying pace, Brazilian forward Neymar Jr. clocks in at number seven with a total income of US$108 million or around Rp1.72 trillion. His on-field earnings amount to US$80 million, while lucrative endorsement deals with brands, such as Puma, contribute an additional US$28 million off the pitch.
8. Karim Benzema
Rounding out the list is French striker Karim Benzema. Formerly a star player for Real Madrid and currently competing for Al-Ittihad, Benzema rakes in a total of US$106 million or around Rp1.69 trillion annually. His impressive on-field income of US$100 million is supplemented by US$6 million earned through endorsements and other ventures.
