TOP 10 highest paid athletes in history! Cristiano Ronaldo as the best football player in 5th place, the ranking is dominated by Michael Jordan

Let’s delve into the financial world of sport, where we uncover the extraordinary careers and associated staggering earnings of the world’s highest paid athletes. From iconic basketball legends to golf virtuosos and football heroes. These athletes have not only dominated their respective branches, but have also amassed wealth beyond the imagination of mere mortals.

The Sportico server has come up with a list of the 10 highest paid athletes in history of sport. Take a look at those who have not only dominated their respective sports, but have taken their success into the world of finance.

10.  Phil Mickelson – $1.36 billion 

Phil Mickelson, a golfer with 6 major titles, has become one of the most successful players in the sport. His victories at the Masters and British Open have made him a major figure in the golfing world.

After his success on the course, Mickelson became involved in business, investing in projects like LIV Golf, expanding his influence in the golf industry with Saudi Arabian funding at his back. The American golfer has reached an estimated wealth of $1.36 billion.

9. Roger Federer – $1.38 billion 

Roger Federer, the tennis virtuoso, holds many records in men’s tennis. He is considered one of the best players in history. His elegance on the court and nobility off the court have made him a favorite not only with fans but also with sponsors.

After his active career ended, he became an ambassador for many luxury brands and engaged in philanthropy, bolstering his name and estimated fortune of $1.38 billion.

8. Floyd Mayweather – $1.41 billion 

Floyd Mayweather, one of the most famous boxers of the modern era of boxing, holds a respectable 50-0 undefeated record. His wealth comes not only from the ring. But also from his unique role as a promoter of his own fights and his magnetic personality that has managed to attract the eyes of the general public.

Mayweather has maintained his high earnings even after his career ended thanks to the promotional activities of Mayweather Promotions. In addition, he participates in exhibition boxing matches, adding to his estimated $1.41 billion galactic fortune.

7. Lionel Messi – $1.48 billion 

Lionel Messi, Argentina’s footballing genius, still ranks as one of the greatest footballers of all time, if not the very greatest, when he was still actively playing. You will hardly find a record he doesn’t have to his credit.

The winner of eight Ballon d’Ors is now teaching football in MLS. Thanks to his galactic contract with Inter Miami and huge sponsorship deals, his wealth is estimated at $1.48 billion.

6. LeBron James – $1.53 billion 

LeBron James, a superstar in the world of basketball and the best shooter in NBA history, is often compared to the legendary Michael Jordan. His dominance on the court and unique voice off the court have earned him not only sporting success but also commercial popularity.

James is currently the highest paid player in the entire NBA. Outside of basketball, he is behind the successful SpringHill Company, contributing to his estimated fortune of $1.53 billion.

5. Cristiano Ronaldo – $1.58 billion 

Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the biggest personalities in the world of soccer, is taking the world by storm not only on the soccer turf, but off it as well. The star cannonballer holds many team and individual records. Thanks to the huge mass of fans, he is one of the most watched football players in the world.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid star is currently leading the flagship football branding efforts in Saudi Arabia. A mega-contract with Al Nassr and sponsorship deals with the world’s biggest companies have made him the highest-earning football player in history, with an estimated fortune of $1.58 billion.

4. Jack Nicklaus – $1.63 billion

Jack Nicklaus, the golfing great, holds the record with 18 major titles (three more than Tiger Woods) and is considered one of the greatest players in history. His sporting career is decorated with many titles and the creation of a golf empire.

Jack Nicklaus’ financial achievements include stakes in golf businesses and profitable contracts, leading to his estimated fortune of $1.63 billion.

3. Arnold Palmer – $1.7 billion

Arnold Palmer, a golf legend, won seven major tournaments and became one of the most charismatic players in golf history. His personality and the game itself created a brand that has endured beyond the end of his active career.

Arnold Palmer’s financial success came from extensive sponsorship deals, licensing and golf course design stakes, which created an estimated fortune of $1.7 billion.

2. Tiger Woods – $2.5 billion

Tiger Woods, the undisputed king of the golf world, has won 15 major tournaments and become one of the most successful golfers in history. His long-term dominance has created endless contract and sponsorship opportunities.

Tiger Woods’ financial success has been estimated at $2.5 billion, although his career has been marred by health problems. Then recently he announced that he had parted ways with Nike after 27 years, ending one of the most lucrative partnerships in sports history.

1. Michael Jordan – $3.35 billion

Michael Jordan is in a league of his own here. A basketball legend, he holds an indelible record as the greatest player of all time. With over 32,000 career points, he has become an icon of the NBA and the Chicago Bulls. After a great sports career, he became the majority owner of the Charlotte Hornets and created an extensive business portfolio.

His financial success is further enhanced by his partnership with Nike, ownership of NASCAR team 23XI Racing and investments in various industries. His net worth is estimated at $3.35 billion.

Source: Sportico, Wikipedia