Unveiling the Champions: Top-Earning Athletes in 2024

The world’s Top-Earning Athletes list, according to the latest Forbes ranking, reveals Ronaldo remains at the top. This legendary footballer, who previously held the FIFA World Player of the Year title, who was once named FIFA World Player of the Year, made an amazing $260 million a year from his deal with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. From the $124 million he made the year before, this is a big increase.

A Surprise Contender Takes Second Place

Jon Rahm, the Spanish golfer who plays in the Saudi Arabia-supported LIV Golf league, has surprisingly taken second place with a total of $218 million inclusive of sponsorships. Lionel Messi currently at Inter Miami in America closely follows Rahm with $135 Million in third position—this shows how far apart the two top earners are.

African Stars Shine Bright

Mohamed Salah, an Egyptian star player for Liverpool, is ranked 38th and is Africa’s best-paid footballer, having made about $53 million. He is also the seventh-best-paid soccer player in the world. In addition, Sadio Mané, another great African player, makes it to this list in 40th place, having made a total of $52 million so far. This shows that Africa is becoming an increasing presence in world football.