Ever wondered what it takes to become a sporting icon who earns billions every year? From football fields to basketball courts, these athletes redefine wealth with a blend of sports glamor and off-field charisma.
Subject - list
- Cristiano Ronaldo - ₹2082 crore
- John Rahm - ₹1712 crore
- Lionel Messi - 1074 crore rupees
- LeBron James - ₹990 crore
- Kylian Mbappe – ₹881 crore
- Giannis Antetokounmpo – ₹873 crore
- Neymar Jr - ₹864 crore
- Karim Benzema – ₹864 crore
- Virat Kohli - 848 crore rupees
- Stephen Curry - ₹831 crore
1. Cristiano Ronaldo - ₹2082 crore
Ronaldo's move to Al-Nasr in Saudi Arabia not only rocked the football world but also sent his earnings into another stratosphere. Earning ₹2082 crore ($260 million) in the last 12 months, he tops the financial charts driven by a combination of salary, endorsements, and social media dominance. His off-pitch deals bolster his financial empire, including partnerships with brands such as Nike and his CR7 line.
2. John Rahm - ₹1712 crore
Golf superstar Jon Rahm's rise to the pinnacle of sports wealth illustrates the lucrative nature of professional golf. His win at the 2023 Masters and other strong performances on the PGA Tour earned him over ₹1712 crore ($214 million). Rahm's earnings come not just from wins, but from lucrative endorsement deals with Callaway, Mercedes-Benz, and others. His rise reflects golf's continuing global appeal.
3. Lionel Messi - ₹1074 crore
While Messi's transfer to Inter Miami marked a new chapter in his football career, his status as a global brand remains intact. In the last 12 months, Messi has raked in ₹1074 crore ($134 million), thanks to his salary and numerous sponsorship deals including Adidas, Budweiser, and Pepsi. Messi's brand is as strong as ever, with his move to MLS further strengthening his position in North America.
4. LeBron James - ₹990 crore
The King continues to reign supreme in the NBA and beyond. LeBron James earned ₹990 crore ($123 million) last year, making him one of the highest-paid athletes globally. In addition to his NBA salary, James' financial success stems from his media company, SpringHill, and endorsement deals with Nike, Beats, and Coca-Cola. As he nears the end of his playing career, his off-court ventures are set to put him in the financial spotlight.
5. Kylian Mbappe - ₹881 crore
At just 25 years old, Kylian Mbappe is already cementing his position as one of the richest and most marketable footballers on the world stage. Earning ₹881 crore ($110 million), Mbappe's income is mainly driven by his contract with Paris Saint-Germain and endorsements with Nike and Hublot. The French sensation's playing power and global appeal ensure his financial trajectory is only upward.
6. Giannis Antetokounmpo – ₹873 crore
"The Greek Freak" has become a dominant force on and off the basketball court. Giannis Antetokounmpo earned ₹873 Cr ($109 million) this past year, thanks to his NBA salary and T-Mobile's endorsement of brands like Nike, JBL, and Metro. His captivating story of rising from humble beginnings in Greece to NBA superstardom resonated with fans and sponsors.
7. Neymar Jr - ₹864 crore
Neymar remains one of the most flashy and bankable athletes on the planet. Last year, he earned ₹864 crore ($108 million) through his PSG salary and sponsorship deals with Puma and Qatar National Bank. Neymar's star appeal extends beyond the football pitch, and his influence in fashion and entertainment keeps his brand strong worldwide.
8. Karim Benzema – ₹864 crore
Ballon d'Or winning forward, Karim Benzema, who is now playing in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ittihad, saw his earnings rise to ₹864 crore ($108 million). His move to the Middle East has not only increased his salary but also increased his global appeal. Benzema's consistent performances, along with his new challenges, have made him one of the richest footballers in the world.
9. Virat Kohli - ₹848 crore
Cricket superstar Virat Kohli has been the flag bearer for the financial side of the game. Earning ₹848 crore ($106 million) in the last 12 months, Kohli's income comes from a combination of IPL contracts, brand endorsements, and personal ventures. His partnerships with Puma, Audi, and MRF keep his earnings strong, while his fan base spans billions across the globe.
10. Stephen Curry - ₹831 crore
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry continues to shoot his way to financial greatness. Earning ₹831 crore ($104 million) this past year, Curry's income stems from his lucrative NBA contract and endorsements with Under Armour, Chase, and Infiniti. Known for revolutionizing basketball with his shooting skills, Curry's off-court appeal is just as powerful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How are athlete earnings calculated?
Athlete earnings are a combination of salary/winnings from their respective sports and endorsement deals with various brands.
2. Why are football players among the highest-paid athletes?
Football is the most popular sport globally, and top players generate significant income through broadcast rights, sponsorship deals, and ticket sales, making them highly marketable.
3. Do endorsement deals contribute significantly to an athlete's income?
Yes, for many top athletes, endorsement deals with global brands contribute a significant portion of their income, sometimes surpassing their actual playing salaries.
