The world of sports is not just a platform for athletes to display their skills, but also a lucrative business that generates billions in revenue. In 2023, athletes across various sports have continued to earn substantial amounts, not just from their salaries and winnings but also from endorsements, investments, and business ventures. This article provides a detailed list of the top 10 richest athletes in the world in 2023.
Cristiano Ronaldo: The Richest Athlete in 2023
Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese football legend, tops the list as the richest athlete in 2023, earning a whopping $136 million. Ronaldo’s earnings comprise $46 million from his playing salary and an impressive $90 million from off-field ventures.
The Reign of Soccer
Soccer stars Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappé also make it to the top three. Messi, the Argentine maestro, earned $130 million, with $65 million coming from his playing salary and an equal amount from off-field activities. French sensation Kylian Mbappé is third on the list, earning $120 million, with $100 million from his playing salary and $20 million from off-field activities.
Basketball’s Billionaires
Basketball also has a strong presence in the top 10 with LeBron James and Stephen Curry. James made $119.5 million, with $44.5 million from his playing salary and $75 million from off-field activities. Curry, on the other hand, earned $100.4 million, with $48.4 million from his playing salary and $52 million from off-field activities.
Boxing and Golf’s High Earners
Mexican boxer Canelo Álvarez and golfers Dustin Johnson and Phil Mickelson also made the list. Álvarez earned $110 million, Johnson $107 million, and Mickelson $106 million. The earnings of these athletes largely come from their sporting ventures, with Álvarez earning $100 million from boxing, Johnson $102 million from golf, and Mickelson $104 million from golf.
Tennis Legend and Another NBA Star
Tennis legend Roger Federer, who announced his retirement in September, still makes the top 10, earning $95.1 million, almost entirely from off-field activities. NBA star Kevin Durant rounds out the list with $89.1 million, with almost equal contributions from his playing salary and off-field activities.
FAQs
Cristiano Ronaldo is the richest athlete in 2023, earning $136 million.
Two soccer players, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, are in the top 3 richest athletes in 2023.
LeBron James is the richest basketball player in 2023.
Summary
In 2023, the top 10 richest athletes come from a range of sports, including soccer, basketball, boxing, and golf. These athletes earn their substantial wealth not only from their sporting prowess but also from various off-field ventures, including endorsements, investments, and business enterprises. Soccer remains the most lucrative sport, with Cristiano Ronaldo
