Europe's Loss, Their Gain: The 5 Highest-Paid Athletes Making Bank Outside Europe

In 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo has once again proven why he is considered one of the greatest athletes of all time. According to Forbes' latest report, the Portuguese football icon is the highest-paid athlete in the world, earning a staggering $260 million in total this year. The majority of his income comes from his lucrative contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, where he earns a remarkable $200 million in salary, making him the highest-paid football player globally. Additionally, Ronaldo continues to rake in impressive sums from endorsements, with his sponsorship deals contributing another $60 million to his annual earnings. This allows Cristiano to indulge in luxuries that virtually no other athlete can.

Ronaldo's Earnings Breakdown: Salary vs. Endorsements

Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings in 2024 are truly unmatched in the world of sports, but let’s break down how these figures stack up:

Salary with Al Nassr: $200 Million

• In December 2022, Cristiano Ronaldo made a groundbreaking move to Al Nassr, a Saudi Arabian football club, following his departure from Manchester United. This high-profile transfer has allowed him to earn a record-breaking salary of $200 million per year. Al Nassr’s investment in Ronaldo has boosted both the club’s visibility and its stature in world football.

Endorsements: $60 Million

• Outside of his football career, Ronaldo’s brand is one of the most marketable in the world. His endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Clear, and his own CR7 brand contribute $60 million to his annual income. His massive social media following, which includes over 500 million followers across platforms, makes him one of the most influential figures in sports marketing.

The Top Five Highest-Paid Athletes in 2024

Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible earnings, the other athletes on the list are also earning impressive amounts, making the 2024 rankings a showcase of both sporting excellence and commercial success.

2. Stephen Curry: $158 Million

• Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry ranks second on the list with $158 million in 2024. The basketball legend continues to dominate the NBA, where his talent on the court is matched by his success off the court through endorsements. Curry's deals with Under Armour, Rakuten, and others contribute significantly to his wealth. His massive social media presence and status as one of the most marketable athletes in basketball ensure that he remains a top earner.

3. Tyson Fury: $148 Million

• British boxer Tyson Fury, known as “The Gypsy King,” takes the third spot on the highest-paid list with $148 million. Fury’s earnings come primarily from his fight purses, including his massive paydays from the highly anticipated bouts in the heavyweight division. Additionally, Fury’s endorsement deals and media appearances have also made him a financial powerhouse in the boxing world.

4. Lionel Messi: $135 Million

• Despite his move to Inter Miami in 2023, Lionel Messi remains one of the highest-paid athletes in the world, earning $135 million in 2024. Messi’s football salary, as well as his sponsorship deals with brands like Adidas, Budweiser, and others, contribute significantly to his wealth. Even though his playing career in Europe is behind him, Messi’s star power continues to shine brightly, especially in the United States, where his presence has boosted the profile of Major League Soccer.

5. LeBron James: $133 Million

• NBA legend LeBron James rounds out the top five with $133 million in earnings this year. Known not only for his incredible talent on the court but also for his business acumen, LeBron has solidified his place as a global icon. His endorsement deals with Nike, his ownership stake in the Liverpool Football Club, and his media ventures all contribute to his financial success. LeBron’s ability to remain relevant in both sports and entertainment makes him one of the most marketable athletes worldwide.

Why These Athletes Are Dominating the Pay Rankings

The athletes at the top of the earnings list in 2024 all share several key attributes: unparalleled talent, global recognition, and significant brand power. They have managed to parlay their on-field success into lucrative endorsement deals and business ventures. Their continued dominance in their respective sports, combined with their ability to engage audiences off the field, has allowed them to generate vast income streams.

For example, Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr opened up new markets for both himself and Saudi football, while Curry’s presence in the NBA Finals and his brand collaborations with Under Armour have cemented his place as a household name. Similarly, Tyson Fury’s captivating personality and larger-than-life persona have made him a favorite for big-ticket events and sponsorships. Messi, despite leaving Europe, is still highly sought after, and LeBron’s media empire is only continuing to grow.

These athletes prove that in today’s world, the power of an athlete's personal brand and business ventures can be just as impactful as their performance on the field, court, or ring.

As 2024 continues to unfold, it’s clear that these athletes will continue to shape the sports industry, both on and off the field. Their incredible earnings are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the immense value they bring to sports and the global entertainment market.