Top 30 richest athletes in the world 2024

Sports in the modern era are a great way to get entertained and connect with other people. For athletes it means more than that, as it is from their daily sporting activities they make a living.

There are many athletes who compete professionally. Even though, only a few attain the highest level of success. As you know, success in sports translates to huge salaries and endorsements. It's from these coupled with investments that athletes are able to attain large net worths.

From football legends to basketball stars and golf greats, below is a list of the richest athletes of all the time.

1. Michael Jordan Net Worth - $3.5 Billion

Michael Jordan is regarded as NBA’s greatest all time player and won 6 titles with Chicago bulls.

His net worth is now believed to be $2.2 billion thanks to the value of his NBA team, the Charlotte Hornets.

He also has sponsorship deals with Nike, Hanes, Gatorade and Upper Deck

2. Vince McMahon Net Worth – $2.4 Billion

Vince McMahon is an American professional wrestling promoter and executive, American football executive and is the contemporary CEO of WWE.

McMahon has a net worth of $ 2.4 billion which is a decline from $2 Billion due to corona virus woes.

3. Ion Tiriac Net Worth – $2.0 Billion

Tiriac is a former professional tennis and ice hockey player, currently serving as president of Romanian Tennis Federation.

After a successful career in tennis, Tiriac ventured into business where he founded the Tiriac Group which has interests in real estate, auto and financial services.

Forbes estimates his net worth to be $2.0 Billion

4. Anna Kasprzak Net Worth - $1.3 Billion

Anna Kasprzak is a Danish dressage rider. She represented Denmark at two summer Olympics events in the process achieving a 4th place finish in the team competition in 2021.

Along with her brother Andre and Mother Hanni, owns $1.3 Billion Danish shoe manufacturer, ECCO

5. Lebron James Net Worth - $1.2 Billion

Commonly known as King James, Lebron is a professional basketball player in the NBA currently playing for Los Angeles Lakers.

He is a 4 time NBA MVP, who is regarded by some as the greatest basketball player of all time.

Lebron was one of the best paid athletes of 2020 earning $88.2 million as reported by Forbes.

As one of the most marketable athletes today, James has the likes of Nike, Wal-Mart, Beats Electronics and 2K Sports in his endorsement portfolio.

He is also an entrepreneur. Some of his investments include Blaze Pizza franchises in Chicago and Florida, Ladder – a health and wellness company and he is a part owner of Liverpool FC.

6. Tiger Woods Net Worth - $1.1 Billion

Tiger Woods is an American Professional golfer. He is tied for first in PGA tour wins and ranks second in men’s major championships plus many more.

He is Widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time.

Woods has earned more than $120 million in prize money during his lengthy career in pro golf. However, his winnings pale into insignificance compared to his earnings from endorsement deals.

As of 2021, Tiger Woods net worth is estimated to be roughly $800 million dollars.

7. The Rock Dwayne Johnson Net Worth - $800 Million

Dwayne Johnson, also known as "The Rock," has established himself not only as a renowned wrestler but also as a highly successful actor and entrepreneur. With his charismatic personality and undeniable talent, Johnson has accumulated a staggering net worth. As of 2023, his estimated net worth was approximately $800 million, making him one of the wealthiest entertainers in the world.

Johnson's wealth primarily stems from his highly lucrative film career, where he has starred in numerous blockbuster hits, commanding hefty salaries and box office returns. In addition to acting, he has also ventured into producing, further expanding his financial portfolio.

Moreover, Johnson has successfully ventured into the business world, with his own production company, Seven Bucks Productions, and lucrative endorsement deals with major brands like Under Armour and Project Rock. Combined with his social media presence, Johnson has managed to build an impressive empire and solidify his status as a multifaceted and wealthy entertainer.

8. Michael Schumacher Net Worth - $650 Million

Michael Schumacher is a retired German racing driver who competed in formula one for Jordan, Benetton, Ferrari and Mercedes.

Schumacher has a net worth of $800 million which he attained from endorsements and sponsorships deals. His career earnings are over $1 billion and he is one of few athletes to attain the feat.

9. Magic Johnson Net Worth - $620 Million

Revered as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Johnson spent his 13 year NBA career with the Lakers guiding them to 5 championships.

According to various sources, Johnson's net worth is currently $600 million. He launched Magic Johnson enterprises upon retirement that is valued over $1 billion today.

10. Lionel Messi Net Worth - $600 Million

Messi earns a significant portion of his income from his salary as a professional football player. He has been one of the highest-paid footballers in the world for many years, earning tens of millions of dollars annually from his club and national team contracts.

Lionel Messi's salary at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) was reported to be around €35 million ($41 million) per year after taxes. Additionally, Messi's contract with PSG may include other bonuses and incentives that can increase his earnings.

Messi is also one of the most marketable athletes in the world, and he has endorsement deals with several high-profile brands, including Adidas, PepsiCo, and Huawei. He reportedly earns tens of millions of dollars each year from these partnerships.

Messi has also invested in several businesses, including a hotel chain and a luxury apartment complex. These investments provide him with additional income streams.

Messi owns the rights to his name and image, which allows him to earn royalties from merchandise sales and other commercial uses of his likeness.

11. Junior Bridgeman Net Worth - $600 Million

Junoir Bridgeman is an American businessman and former professional basketball player.

Despite not having an eventful career as a basketball player, his enterprising nature is what earned him a net worth of $600 Million.

12. Roger Staubach Net Worth - $600 Million

Nicknamed “Roger the Dodger”, Roger Staubach is a former professional football player for Dallas Cowboys in the NFL.

Staubach is one of the wealthiest NFL players in history with an estimated net worth of $600 Million.

13. Eddie Jordan Net Worth - $600 Million

Eddie Jordan is an Irish former motorsport team boss, businessman and television personality.

Jordan obtained his wealth through founding and owning Jordan Grand Prix. His net worth today is $600 Million.

14. Roger Federer Net Worth - $550 Million

Roger Federer is a former Swiss professional tennis player. He has won 20 Grand Slam men’s singles titles a feat only marched by Rafael Nadal.

Federer was ranked by Forbes as the best paid athlete of 2020, leap frogging the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi raking $106.3 Million.

15. Cristiano Ronaldo Net Worth - $500 Million

Cristiano Ronaldo is a professional Portuguese Football player currently playing as a center forward for Saudi Arabia club Al-Nassr FC. With over 800 career goals, Ronaldo is regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Like the other great athletes Cristiano earns handsomely. According to Forbes, Ronaldo was 2nd on the list of best paid athletes of 2020 taking home $105 million – $60 million from salary and $45 million from endorsements.

Due to his famous personality, Ronaldo is sponsored by popular brands like Herbalife, Nike, Tag Heuer and many more.

Apart from representing other brands, Ronaldo has created his own brand around the CR7 image. It is mostly centered on his underwear line but has evolved to include various other clothing, leisure and home products.

16.Vinnie Johnson Net Worth - $450 Million

Vinnie Johnson, also known as "The Microwave," had a successful career as a professional basketball player and later as a businessman. While not as widely known as some other sports icons, Johnson has made a notable impact both on and off the court.

As of 2023, his estimated net worth was around $400 million. Johnson's wealth can be attributed to his time in the NBA, where he played for the Detroit Pistons and was a key contributor to their back-to-back championship victories in 1989 and 1990.

After retiring from basketball, he went on to establish the Piston Automotive Corporation, an automotive supplier company that became highly successful. Through his business ventures and investments, Johnson has significantly grown his wealth over the years.

17. Floyd Mayweather Net Worth - $450 Million

Floyd Mayweather is an American professional boxing promoter and former professional boxer.

Forbes reports Mayweather made over $1 billion from boxing bouts in the last decade making him one of the best paid athletes ever.

18. David Beckham Net Worth - $450 Million

David Beckham is a retired English football player who played for Manchester united, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, PSG at club level and the England national team.

His career peaked in the late 1990’s while playing for Man United achieving worldwide fame in the process.

Beckham’s net worth is estimated to be $450 million in 2023 credited to huge salaries and endorsement deals as a player.

He is also a renowned fashion enthusiast which made it possible to work with global fashion brands like H & M.

Beckham has invested in football clubs, such as Salford City FC in the UK, Guild Esports, and the MLS team Inter Miami CF, which he co-owns.

He has a successful fashion brand called "DB Ventures" that includes several labels, such as Kent & Curwen and Victoria Beckham, the latter being a joint venture with his wife.

19. Phil Mickelson Net Worth - $400 Million

Phil Mickelson, the legendary professional golfer, has achieved tremendous success throughout his career, both on and off the course. As of 2023, Mickelson's estimated net worth stood at around $400 million, solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest athletes in the world. His wealth can be attributed to his numerous victories on the PGA Tour, including five major championships. Mickelson's incredible performance in golf has earned him substantial prize money, endorsement deals with prominent brands like Callaway and Rolex, and lucrative appearance fees for prestigious tournaments. Beyond his golfing achievements, Mickelson has also invested in real estate and other business ventures, further adding to his wealth.

20. Greg Norman Net Worth - $400 Million

Greg Norman, the Australian golfing legend known as "The Great White Shark," has achieved remarkable success both on and off the golf course, amassing significant wealth over the years. As of 2023, his estimated net worth was approximately $400 million. Norman's wealth can be attributed to his highly successful golf career, during which he won numerous tournaments, including two Open Championships. Beyond his golfing accomplishments, Norman has made savvy business investments and ventures.

21. Shaquille O'Neal Net Worth - $400 Million

Shaquille O'Neal, the larger-than-life basketball icon, towers not only on the court but also in the realm of wealth and net worth. With his captivating personality and dominant playing style, O'Neal has accumulated an awe-inspiring fortune. As of 2023, his estimated net worth soared to a colossal $400 million. O'Neal's wealth stems from his highly successful NBA career, where he showcased his unrivaled skills and won multiple championships. Beyond basketball, he has cleverly diversified his income streams, making strategic investments in various industries. From his ownership stakes in restaurants and nightclubs to his lucrative endorsement deals with leading brands like Pepsi and Icy Hot, O'Neal has cemented his position as a savvy businessman. Additionally, his charismatic presence as a sports analyst on TV further boosts his financial standing.

22. Jack Nicklaus Net Worth - $400 Million

Jack Nicklaus, the legendary "Golden Bear" of golf, has left an indelible mark on the sport and amassed a treasure trove of wealth along the way. His $400 million fortune springs from his unparalleled success as a professional golfer, having won a record-setting 18 major championships. His dominance on the course attracted lucrative endorsement deals with renowned brands like Rolex and Coca-Cola, further enhancing his financial prowess. However, Nicklaus' entrepreneurial ventures have proven equally fruitful. His golf course design company has crafted renowned courses worldwide, generating substantial revenue and contributing to his vast fortune.

23. Alex Rodriguez Net Worth - $380 Million

Rodriguez's wealth stems from his illustrious career as a professional baseball player, where he shattered records and earned astronomical salaries. His on-field accomplishments secured numerous endorsement deals with prominent brands like Nike and Pepsi, bolstering his financial empire. Beyond the diamond, Rodriguez has deftly ventured into the business world. From his real estate investments to his media and broadcasting endeavors, he has displayed a shrewd business acumen that has yielded remarkable returns. Furthermore, his role as a respected sports analyst and his ownership stake in diverse enterprises have further solidified his financial standing.

24. George Foreman Net Worth - $300 Million

George Foreman, the boxing legend and larger-than-life personality, has achieved a knockout net worth and an awe-inspiring legacy. Foreman's wealth stems from his illustrious boxing career, where he dominated the heavyweight division and won multiple world titles. His charisma and marketability attracted lucrative endorsement deals, most notably the iconic George Foreman Grill, which revolutionized the kitchen appliance industry and became a global sensation. Beyond boxing and grills, Foreman expanded his empire through savvy business investments, including real estate ventures and entrepreneurial endeavors.

25. Dale Earnhardt, Jr Net Worth - $300 Million

Dale Earnhardt, Jr., the charismatic and beloved figure in NASCAR racing, has accumulated a considerable fortune throughout his illustrious career. Earnhardt's wealth springs from his extraordinary success on the racetrack, where he secured multiple wins and championships, earning substantial prize money and lucrative sponsorships from renowned brands like Nationwide and Chevrolet. Additionally, his magnetic personality and genuine connection with fans expanded his reach beyond the track, leading to various endorsement deals and media appearances.

26. Lewis Hamilton Net Worth - $285 Million

Lewis Hamilton, the British racing superstar and seven-time Formula 1 World Champion, has zoomed his way into an extraordinary realm of wealth and success. Hamilton's wealth has been largely generated through his remarkable achievements on the racetrack, where he has secured numerous race wins and championship titles, earning substantial prize money and lucrative endorsement deals with prestigious brands like Mercedes-Benz, Tommy Hilfiger, and Puma. Beyond racing, Hamilton has diversified his financial portfolio through entrepreneurial ventures, including his own fashion line, collaborations in the music industry, and investments in the tech sector.

27. Serena Williams Net Worth - $260 Million

Serena Williams, the tennis powerhouse and cultural icon, has amassed an extraordinary net worth that eclipses boundaries both on and off the court. Her net worth in 2023 is a phenomenal $400 million, making her one of the wealthiest female athletes in history. Williams' wealth is a testament to her unparalleled success in tennis, where she clinched 23 Grand Slam singles titles and countless other championships, earning substantial prize money throughout her career. Her dominance on the court has also attracted lucrative endorsement deals with renowned brands like Nike, Gatorade, and JPMorgan Chase, bolstering her financial empire. Furthermore, Williams has demonstrated her entrepreneurial prowess with the launch of her clothing line, Serena, and investments in various businesses and startups.

28. Wayne Gretzky Net Worth - $250 Million

Gretzky's wealth flows from his unrivaled career in the NHL, where he shattered records and cemented his status as the greatest hockey player of all time. His dominance on the ice led to lucrative contracts, including his time with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings, as well as endorsement deals with iconic brands like Nike and Coca-Cola. Beyond his playing days, Gretzky's business acumen allowed him to explore ventures in sports ownership, including his stake in the Phoenix Coyotes.

29. Fernando Alonso Net Worth - $250 Million

Alonso's wealth has been built upon his exceptional career in Formula 1, where he secured two World Championships and numerous race victories, earning substantial prize money and valuable endorsement deals with iconic brands like McLaren, Renault, and TAG Heuer. Beyond racing, Alonso has diversified his financial ventures, including investments in real estate, technology startups, and even his own esports team. Additionally, his talent and appeal have transcended motorsport, with appearances in prestigious endurance races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Indianapolis 500.

30. Kimi Raikkonen Net Worth - $250 Million

Räikkönen's wealth originates from his illustrious career in Formula 1, where he secured the World Championship in 2007 and achieved numerous race victories, earning substantial prize money and lucrative contracts with esteemed teams like Ferrari and Alfa Romeo. Beyond the racetrack, Räikkönen has cultivated a mysterious yet charismatic persona that has attracted brand endorsements, including partnerships with Oakley and Iceman Vodka.