Top 10 Highest Paid Athletes in the World 2023
In the world of professional sports, athletes not only showcase their exceptional skills and dedication but also earn substantial incomes from their respective sports and endorsement deals. The year 2023 has witnessed some extraordinary athletes who have managed to secure lucrative contracts and endorsement agreements, making them the highest paid athletes in the world. In this article, we will explore the top 10 highest-paid athletes in the world in 2023.
10. Kevin Durant – $89.1million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $44.1 million
Off-Field:- $45 million
Nationality:- U.S.
Sport:- Basketball
In February, Durant’s basketball journey took an unexpected turn as he was traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Phoenix Suns, showcasing his ability to adapt and excel in new team environments. However, Durant’s ventures extend far beyond the confines of the basketball court. Through his investment firm, 35V, he has been actively diversifying his portfolio, acquiring ownership stakes in various ventures across different sports and industries. From the Premier Lacrosse League to the nutrition brand Happy Viking, from League One Volleyball to the women’s sports league network Athletes Unlimited, Durant’s strategic investments demonstrate his keen interest in supporting and promoting sports in various forms.
9. Roger Federer – $95.1million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $0.1 million
Off-Field:- $95 million
Nationality:- Switzerland
Sport:- Tennis
In September, Federer made the heartfelt decision to retire from professional tennis, concluding his remarkable career on a high note. His final appearance on the court took place during the Laver Cup, where he teamed up with Rafael Nadal, his longtime rival and friend, in the prestigious international team tournament that he played a pivotal role in establishing back in 2017.
8. Stephen Curry – $100.4million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $48.4 million
Off-Field:- $52 million
Nationality:- U.S.
Sport:- Basketball
Fresh from securing his fourth NBA championship in June, Curry has experienced a career milestone by surpassing the $100 million mark in earnings this year. His impressive salary of $48.1 million for this season ranks as the highest in the NBA, and he is poised to become the league’s first player to earn over $50 million in the 2023-24 season, with an estimated income of $51.9 million.
7. Phil Mickelson – $106million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $104 million
Off-Field:- $2 million
Nationality:- U.S.
Sport:– Golf
Mickelson, who achieved the remarkable milestone of surpassing $1 billion in career pre-tax earnings in the previous year, has experienced a shift in sponsors after joining LIV Golf. Despite this, he remains actively engaged in various ventures off the golf course. Notably, he is one of the co-founders of For Wellness, a company specializing in coffee supplements. Additionally, Mickelson recently joined a group of investors in the acquisition of a substantial parcel of land located outside Phoenix, demonstrating his continued involvement in entrepreneurial pursuits.
6. Dustin Johnson – $107million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $102 million
Off-Field:- $5 million
Nationality:- U.S.
Sport:- Golf
Johnson made headlines as the first prominent figure to join LIV Golf in May of the previous year. He capped off 2022 with a remarkable achievement, securing an impressive $35.6 million in prize money, surpassing all other players on the tour. This significant sum included a staggering $18 million for claiming the individual championship throughout the season. While this move may have resulted in the loss of certain sponsors, such as the Royal Bank of Canada, it propelled him to become the biggest beneficiary of the year. Interestingly, he didn’t even make the list of the top 50 highest-paid athletes in 2022.
5. Canelo Alvarez – $110million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $100 million
Off-Field:- $10 million
Nationality:- Mexico
Sport:- Boxing
Álvarez consistently amasses substantial fortunes every time he enters the boxing ring, attaining remarkable success through high-profile bouts against Dmitry Bivol and Gennadiy Golovkin in the past year. It’s worth noting that this Forbes list covers until May 1, excluding the earnings from his fight with John Ryder on May 6. Nonetheless, Álvarez’s financial gains remain impressive.
4. LeBron James – $119.5million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $44.5 million
Off-Field:– $75 million
Nationality:- U.S.
Sport:- Basketball
In the world of top athletes today, we witness a remarkable trend of them becoming successful founders and investors. Among them, James stands out as a true embodiment of the entrepreneurial spirit. His achievements led Forbes to certify him as the first active athlete billionaire in June. Alongside his impressive array of endorsements, the forward for the Los Angeles Lakers has ventured into various business endeavors.
3. Kylian Mbappe – $120million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:– $100 million
Off-Field:- $20 million
Nationality:- France
Sport:- Soccer
Ranked No. 35 on last year’s earnings list, Mbappé has now made an impressive debut in the top ten and remains the only member under the age of 30. His position is well-deserved considering he commands the highest playing salary in the entire soccer industry. This is further justified by his performance, as he narrowly missed out on securing a second consecutive World Cup title with France in 2022. Additionally, he finished just behind his Paris Saint-Germain teammate Lionel Messi for the prestigious Best FIFA Men’s Player Award.
2. Lionel Messi – $130million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $65 million
Off-Field:- $65 million
Nationality:- Argentina
Sport:- Soccer
There is much speculation surrounding Messi’s future, with various rumors suggesting a possible return to Barcelona, a move to Saudi Arabia to join Ronaldo or even a landing in MLS with Inter Miami. Regardless of his next destination, Messi’s financial situation seems secure. His earnings remain consistent with the significant figures he has achieved in the last two editions of the list. Moreover, he boasts an extensive list of lucrative endorsements, including partnerships with Adidas, Budweiser, and PepsiCo. One particularly noteworthy deal is his partnership with Socios, a blockchain-based fan platform, which alone brings in an estimated $20 million per year. Given his recent accomplishment of leading Argentina to a World Cup victory in December, Messi is likely to continue receiving lucrative opportunities. In fact, he launched his own investment firm called Play Time in October, further expanding his ventures beyond the football field.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – $136million
Source:- Instagram
On-Field:- $46 million
Off-Field:- $90 million |
Nationality:- Portugal |
Sport:- Soccer
Ronaldo ended his association with Manchester United in November and made a move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia in January. This transfer significantly boosted his annual playing salary to an estimated $75 million, while also opening up new marketing opportunities in his new home. Forbes’ assessment takes into account both of his contracts for this season, factoring in his brief period of unemployment. Although rumors circulated about a potential return to Europe this summer, Ronaldo’s salary increase has propelled him to the top of the list of highest-earning athletes for the first time since 2017 and for the third time overall. His total earnings of $136 million established a new record for soccer players.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the year 2023 has seen remarkable achievements from athletes across various sports. These exceptional individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also secured significant financial rewards. The top 10 highest-paid athletes in the world in 2023 have showcased their talent, hard work, and marketability to secure lucrative contracts and endorsement deals. As the sports industry continues to grow, we can expect these athletes to inspire future generations with their extraordinary performances and financial success.
