In the dynamic world of professional sports, athletes’ earnings have reached unprecedented heights, with the top performers securing substantial incomes through salaries, bonuses, and endorsements. In 2024, the financial landscape of American sports has been particularly remarkable, with several athletes achieving record-breaking earnings. This article highlights the top 10 highest paid sports stars in the USA, showcasing their financial achievements and the diverse sports they represent.
Highest Paid Sports Stars
The list of the highest paid sports stars in the USA for 2024 is dominated by athletes from basketball, football, and baseball. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective sports but have also leveraged their success to secure lucrative endorsement deals, significantly boosting their total earnings. Their financial success reflects their exceptional talent, marketability, and the growing commercial appeal of American sports.
Top 10 Highest Paid Sports Stars
- LeBron James (Basketball) – $128.2 million
- Stephen Curry (Basketball) – $102 million
- Lamar Jackson (Football) – $100.5 million
- Joe Burrow (Football) – $100 million
- Kevin Durant (Basketball) – $93.3 million
- Aaron Rodgers (Football) – $90 million
- Giannis Antetokounmpo (Basketball) – $88.5 million
- Patrick Mahomes (Football) – $85 million
- Tiger Woods (Golf) – $82.5 million
- Shohei Ohtani (Baseball) – $80 million
1. LeBron James (Basketball)
LeBron James, a cornerstone of the NBA and a global ambassador for basketball, remains the epitome of success both on and off the court. With his elite skills and unmatched consistency, LeBron has established himself as a perennial figure in the world of sports and business. His record-breaking contracts and unmatched endorsement deals make him one of the highest paid sports stars, reflecting his unparalleled influence.
- Total Earnings: $128.2 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $48.2 million from his NBA contract with the Los Angeles Lakers
- Endorsements: $80 million through partnerships with Nike, Beats by Dre, and Blaze Pizza
2. Stephen Curry (Basketball)
Stephen Curry, the revolutionary sharpshooter, has redefined the game of basketball with his three-point prowess. As a four-time NBA champion, his talent on the court has translated into immense financial success. Curry’s growing influence in the business world further cements his position among the highest paid sports stars.
- Total Earnings: $102 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $52 million from his Golden State Warriors contract
- Endorsements: $50 million with brands like Under Armour, Google, and Infiniti
3. Lamar Jackson (Football)
Lamar Jackson’s meteoric rise in the NFL has been nothing short of spectacular. Known for his dual-threat quarterback style, Jackson’s massive contract extension solidified his place as one of the highest paid sports stars in the USA. His off-field ventures may be fewer, but his on-field earnings speak volumes.
- Total Earnings: $100.5 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $98.5 million, including his record-setting NFL contract
- Endorsements: $2 million from partnerships with Bose and Oakley
4. Joe Burrow (Football)
Joe Burrow’s rise to stardom as the Cincinnati Bengals’ quarterback has been remarkable. Known for his poise under pressure, Burrow’s historic contract extension catapulted him into the ranks of the highest paid sports stars.
- Total Earnings: $100 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $95 million from his Bengals contract
- Endorsements: $5 million through deals with Nike and Bose
5. Kevin Durant (Basketball)
Kevin Durant, a dominant force in basketball, blends his on-court success with savvy business ventures. As one of the highest paid sports stars, Durant’s investments and endorsements add to his remarkable earnings.
- Total Earnings: $93.3 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $43.3 million from his NBA salary
- Endorsements: $50 million through deals with Nike, Coinbase, and Google
6. Aaron Rodgers (Football)
Aaron Rodgers remains a top earner in the NFL with his impressive quarterback skills and long-standing career. His endorsement portfolio ensures his inclusion among the highest paid sports stars in America.
- Total Earnings: $90 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $60 million from his playing contract
- Endorsements: $30 million with brands like Adidas and State Farm
7. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Basketball)
The “Greek Freak” continues to make waves in the NBA with his athleticism and skill. Giannis’ global appeal and business ventures ensure his spot among the highest paid sports stars.
- Total Earnings: $88.5 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $45 million from the Milwaukee Bucks
- Endorsements: $43.5 million with Nike, JBL Audio, and others
8. Patrick Mahomes (Football)
Patrick Mahomes, a Super Bowl champion and MVP, has quickly risen to the top of NFL earnings. His endorsement deals and part-ownership ventures solidify his position among the highest paid sports stars.
- Total Earnings: $85 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $50 million from his Kansas City Chiefs contract
- Endorsements: $35 million with Adidas, Oakley, and State Farm
9. Tiger Woods (Golf)
Even in the later stages of his career, Tiger Woods remains a dominant financial force in sports. His global brand and sponsorship deals place him firmly among the highest paid sports stars.
- Total Earnings: $82.5 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $12.5 million from tournament winnings
- Endorsements: $70 million with Nike, TaylorMade, and Gatorade
10. Shohei Ohtani (Baseball)
Shohei Ohtani has taken MLB by storm as a two-way player with unmatched talent. His combination of pitching and hitting prowess has made him one of the highest paid sports stars in the USA.
- Total Earnings: $80 million annually
- Salary/Winnings: $30 million from his playing contract
- Endorsements: $50 million from brands like Asics and Topps
Stars Close to the Top 10
Several athletes just missed out on this list, including NFL quarterback Dak Prescott and tennis star Naomi Osaka. Both have seen surges in earnings due to record-breaking contracts and high-profile endorsements. Others, like Serena Williams and MLB star Mookie Betts, continue to bridge the gap between sports and culture with their diversified income streams.
The Top 10 Highest Paid Sports Stars in the USA
The top 10 highest paid sports stars reflect the blending of athletic prowess with business savvy, resulting in staggering earnings. These athletes aren’t just competitors—they are brands, inspiring others to pursue excellence in sports and beyond. As new talents rise and endorsements evolve, the list of the highest paid sports stars will undoubtedly see fresh faces and even higher figures in years to come.
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Published by Trine Fjellberg Falnes on 6 January 2025 (Last updated: 16 December 2024) in Fun Facts, Highest Paid Sports Stars, Insights, athlete income rankings, baseball top earners, football star earnings, highest paid sports stars, LeBron James earnings, MLB highest paid athletes, NBA highest earners, NFL highest paid players, richest sports stars USA, sports star salaries 2024, Stephen Curry income, top athletes endorsements, top earning athletes basketball, top earning athletes USA, USA sports income
