The highest-paid athletes in 2026 earn staggering sums from salary, endorsements, appearance fees, and business ventures. Here are the ten at the top of the earnings table.
Football · Al Nassr FC
Ronaldo's move to Al Nassr generates reported earnings of $200+ million per year in salary alone — the largest playing contract in sports history. Combined with his CR7 brand, Nike partnership, and CR7 hotels and clothing line, Ronaldo consistently tops global athlete earnings.
Football · Inter Miami CF
Messi's move to Inter Miami transformed MLS visibility. His earnings combine a major MLS contract, equity stakes in Apple TV+ and Adidas arrangements, and a massive global endorsement portfolio.
Basketball · Los Angeles Lakers
LeBron James is the first active NBA player to become a billionaire. His SpringHill Company, Fenway Sports Group ownership stake, and production company generate income that dwarfs his NBA salary.
Basketball · Golden State Warriors
Curry's Under Armour partnership — a lifetime endorsement deal reportedly worth $1 billion — is one of the most valuable athlete endorsement arrangements in history.
Football · Al Hilal
Neymar's move to Saudi Pro League generates enormous salary income. His global endorsement portfolio keeps him near the top despite injury setbacks.
Football · Kansas City Chiefs
Mahomes signed the largest contract in NFL history — a 10-year extension worth up to $503 million. His ownership stakes in the Kansas City Royals and Sporting KC add long-term asset value.
Boxing · Multiple weight class champion
The highest-paid boxer in the world. Undisputed super middleweight champion and one of the most recognizable sports figures in Latin America.
Golf · PGA Tour
Tiger Woods has earned more from endorsements than any golfer in history. His Sun Day Red clothing brand with TaylorMade and golf course design business continue to generate significant income.
Tennis · Retired · On Holding investor
Federer retired in 2022 but remains one of the highest-earning athletes. His equity stake in On Running has become one of the most valuable athlete business investments in history.
MMA · UFC Heavyweight Champion
Widely considered the greatest MMA fighter of all time, Jones commands the highest purses in UFC history for his heavyweight title defenses.
Earnings estimates based on publicly available information. Actual figures may differ. For informational purposes only.