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Since its inception in 1990, the Forbes Highest Paid Athletes list has chronicled the highest-paid athletes each year. Here are the top 25 money earners in terms of their cumulative earnings the years they were on the list. Perfect for taking the Forbes Highest Paid Athletes $200M+ Cumulative Earnings or Forbes Highest Paid Athletes Most Appearances quizzes.
Tiger Woods – $1.80B
Tiger Woods is widely considered one of the greatest golfers in history, with career earnings surpassing $1.8 billion. Woods has built his wealth largely through endorsements with brands such as Nike and Gatorade. His 82 PGA Tour wins and 15 major championships have cemented his legacy as a golfing legend.
Cristiano Ronaldo – $1.37B
Cristiano Ronaldo, a global soccer icon, has earned $1.37 billion, largely from endorsements and a lifetime Nike contract. Known for his prolific scoring, Ronaldo’s massive social media following further contributes to his earnings and brand influence.
LeBron James – $1.33B
NBA star LeBron James has amassed $1.33 billion through his athletic achievements and business ventures, including a stake in Blaze Pizza and a Hollywood production company. His lifetime deal with Nike and philanthropy further highlight his lasting impact.
Lionel Messi – $1.23B
Known for his agility and precision, Lionel Messi has earned over $1.23 billion, primarily from his soccer contracts and endorsements. His partnerships with Adidas and Pepsi have helped him become one of the most marketable athletes in sports history.
Roger Federer – $1.05B
Swiss tennis maestro Roger Federer has earned $1.05 billion, with most of his income coming from lucrative endorsements with Rolex, Uniqlo, and Wilson. Federer’s elegance on the court and business acumen off it make him a global sports icon.
Floyd Mayweather – $900.5M
Boxing champion Floyd Mayweather earned $900.5 million through high-profile fights and savvy promotion. Known for his “Money” persona, Mayweather’s financial strategy allowed him to capitalize on every fight he promoted, including the blockbuster bout against Conor McGregor.
Phil Mickelson – $880.1M
Golf legend Phil Mickelson earned $880.1 million through tournament winnings and endorsements, including Callaway and KPMG. Known for his charisma and longevity in the sport, Mickelson continues to be one of the most popular figures in golf.
Neymar – $795.6M
Brazilian soccer star Neymar has earned $795.6 million with lucrative contracts and brand partnerships like Puma. Known for his flair on the field, Neymar has built a personal brand that appeals to fans and companies worldwide.
Kevin Durant – $739.2M
NBA superstar Kevin Durant has earned $739.2 million, thanks to his successful basketball career and partnerships with Nike, Google, and his own investment firm, Thirty Five Ventures, which supports tech startups and media ventures.
Michael Jordan – $739.2M
Although retired, Michael Jordan remains one of the wealthiest athletes with $739.2 million in career earnings, primarily from his iconic Air Jordan brand with Nike. His influence on basketball and sports marketing is still unmatched.
Michael Schumacher – $703.0M
Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher earned $703 million, becoming a motorsport icon. Known for his incredible skill and focus, Schumacher’s success with Ferrari and Mercedes has cemented his status as one of F1’s greats.
Lewis Hamilton – $672.5M
Seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton has earned $672.5 million, mainly from his racing salary and endorsements with brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Mercedes. Hamilton’s activism and style have expanded his influence beyond F1.
Stephen Curry – $648.1M
Revolutionizing basketball with his shooting skills, Stephen Curry has earned $648.1 million, with endorsements from Under Armour and other companies. His style of play has inspired a generation and enhanced his financial success.
Kobe Bryant – $571.0M
The late Kobe Bryant earned $571 million during his storied NBA career and beyond, including endorsement deals with Nike. Known for his “Mamba Mentality,” Bryant’s legacy lives on through his investments and influence in sports and entertainment.
Canelo Alvarez – $544.0M
Boxing champion Canelo Alvarez has earned $544 million, thanks to his pay-per-view bouts and endorsements. Alvarez’s skill in the ring and appeal to fans worldwide have made him one of boxing’s top earners.
Rory McIlroy – $500.7M
Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy has earned $500.7 million through tournament wins and endorsements. Known for his consistency, McIlroy is a staple in the golf world, with major wins and partnerships with brands like Nike.
Russell Westbrook – $472.6M
Known for his dynamic play, Russell Westbrook has earned $472.6 million through NBA salaries and endorsements. His energy and brand partnerships have made him a notable figure in basketball and fashion.
Giannis Antetokounmpo – $452.8M
“The Greek Freak” Giannis Antetokounmpo has earned $452.8 million, making waves with his dominant play style and marketability. His endorsement deals include partnerships with Nike, expanding his influence globally.
Conor McGregor – $451.0M
MMA fighter Conor McGregor has earned $451 million, with much of his income coming from his Proper No. Twelve whiskey brand. Known for his bravado, McGregor has made himself a household name in combat sports.
James Harden – $443.6M
NBA star James Harden has earned $443.6 million through his athleticism and endorsement deals. Known for his scoring ability, Harden’s Adidas deal and investments have bolstered his financial portfolio.
Manny Pacquiao – $430.8M
Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao has earned $430.8 million, largely from his legendary fights. Known for his philanthropy, Pacquiao’s influence extends beyond the ring as he has also served in the Philippine government.
Tom Brady – $430.6M
NFL legend Tom Brady earned $430.6 million, with much of his wealth coming from endorsement deals and his own health and fitness brand, TB12. His success on the field has made him one of football’s most influential figures.
Novak Djokovic – $427.6M
Tennis great Novak Djokovic has earned $427.6 million with his incredible career and endorsement deals. Known for his discipline and skill, Djokovic’s achievements make him one of the most successful players in tennis history.
