Sportico recently unveiled its list of the 50 highest-paid athletes of all time, and the results are nothing short of astounding. Topping the list, and by a considerable margin, is basketball legend Michael Jordan, with a staggering inflation-adjusted career earnings of $4.15 billion. That’s a whopping $1.36 billion more than second-place finisher Tiger Woods.
Jordan’s immense wealth is largely attributed to his enduring Nike partnership. His Air Jordan brand continues to generate billions annually, with Nike reporting $7 billion in Jordan sales in 2024 alone – a 6% increase from the previous year. Beyond Nike, Jordan maintains lucrative endorsement deals with companies like Gatorade and Five Star, and his ownership stake in the 23XI Racing NASCAR team further contributes to his impressive fortune.
The list, compiled using a comprehensive range of income sources including salaries, endorsements, and licensing deals, showcases a diverse group of athletes from various sports and nationalities. The top five is dominated by basketball and soccer stars, with Cristiano Ronaldo ($2.23 billion), LeBron James ($1.88 billion), and Lionel Messi ($1.85 billion) following closely behind Jordan.
Serena Williams stands out as the only woman in the top 50, securing an impressive 40th place with $660 million in career earnings. Sportico also notes that Venus Williams and Maria Sharapova made the top 100, highlighting the continued underrepresentation of women in high-earning sports. Other notable names on the list include David Beckham, Kobe Bryant, Stephen Curry, Tom Brady, and many more legendary athletes.
Sportico’s methodology also accounts for equity stakes in sponsor companies, adding another layer of complexity to the calculations. This includes factors like LeBron James’ investment in Beats Electronics and Lionel Messi’s stake in Inter Miami. The list even includes deceased athletes like Arnold Palmer and George Foreman, with their earnings calculated up until their passing.
This list serves as a powerful testament to the enduring impact of these athletes, not only on the fields of play but also on the global business landscape. It’s a fascinating snapshot of athletic success and the power of branding and smart investments in building a lasting legacy.
