SPORTS

7 Highest Paid Athletes In The World Right Now

Published

9 months ago

February 20, 2024

7 Highest Paid Athletes In The World Right Now | Fab.ng

When it comes to professional sports, a select few superstars, such as the legendary footballers Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi or the basketball phenomenon LeBron James, stand head and shoulders above the rest in terms of their financial earnings. These titans of their respective games consistently rank among the highest-paid athletes of 2023 in the world, their immense talent and marketability attracting lucrative contracts and sponsorships.

Through years of relentless dedication and tireless effort, these legendary individuals have meticulously honed their skills, transforming them into masters of their respective crafts. This dedication has not only yielded them immense acclaim and recognition but has also bestowed upon them a life of prosperity and abundance.

A recent report by Sportico has unveiled the staggering financial power of the world’s top athletes in 2023. The figures are truly jaw-dropping, with these stars earning not only astronomical salaries but also lucrative sponsorship deals. From football titans to basketball legends, golfing masters to NFL powerhouses, the list encompasses athletes across various disciplines. These are the top seven earners of the year 2023.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Undoubtedly one of the most recognisable figures in football history, Cristiano Ronaldo enjoys an exceptional salary at his current club, Al-Nassr. The Portuguese superstar made a much-publicized move to the Saudi Pro League team on December 31, 2022, and has since become the league’s highest-paid player, earning a staggering £175 million per year.

Ronaldo’s earning power also extends far beyond his club salary. He boasts lucrative sponsorship deals with leading global brands such as Nike, Tag Heuer, and Armani, contributing to his estimated total earnings of £218 million in 2023, solidifying his position as the highest-paid athlete in the world.

2. Jon Rahm

Jon Rahm

Spanish golfing sensation Jon Rahm enjoyed a truly remarkable 2023. Not only did the 29-year-old conquer the prestigious Masters tournament, but he also emerged as a European hero, leading his team to victory in the thrilling Ryder Cup against the United States. These triumphs on the course translated into a staggering financial windfall, as Rahm amassed a jaw-dropping £161 million, propelling him to the impressive second spot on Sportico’s list of the highest-paid athletes of 2023. His dazzling performance and impressive earnings solidified his position as one of the sport’s most dominant and celebrated figures.

3. Lionel Messi

Messi

Football legend Lionel Messi continues to break records, adding another Ballon d’Or to his already impressive collection in 2023. This prestigious award has now been bestowed upon Messi a staggering eight times, leaving his long-time rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, trailing by a remarkable three wins.

Messi’s career took a significant turn last year as he ventured beyond Europe, joining the MLS club Inter Miami. This move, however, hasn’t impacted his earning potential. In 2023, he amassed a staggering £52 million in wages, not just from his new team but also from his previous stint with PSG.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Messi’s star power extends to lucrative endorsement deals. This 2022 FIFA World Cup champion raked in a total of £103 million last year, solidifying his position as the third-highest earner in Sportico’s rankings. So, it seems the accolades and financial rewards just keep piling up for this phenomenal footballer.

4. LeBron James

LeBron James highest-paid athletes 2023

LeBron James, the iconic Los Angeles Lakers star, raked in over £99 million last year, solidifying his position as one of the world’s top-earning athletes. Nicknamed “King James” and seen by many as the face of the NBA, he earned a staggering £36 million in wages from his team alone. But James’s financial prowess extends far beyond the basketball court. Through lucrative endorsement deals, he amassed an off-court fortune that landed him in the prestigious top five of Sportico’s highest-paid athletes list.

5. Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappé, the dazzling young star of Paris Saint-Germain, is widely touted as the potential successor to footballing legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, holding the prestigious fifth spot on a recent list of the world’s highest-paid athletes. This coveted French talent commands a hefty salary from his club, earning a staggering £80 million in wages last year alone. However, his financial prowess extends beyond his base salary, as lucrative sponsorship deals add another £19.2 million to his total earnings, bringing his annual income to a phenomenal £99.2 million. Remarkably, at just 25 years old, Mbappé stands as the youngest individual in the top five of this prestigious ranking, solidifying his position as a rising force in the world of football.

6. Neymar

After departing his former club Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023, Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. embarked on a new chapter in his career with Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal. However, his season has been significantly impacted by a cruciate ligament injury, limiting his playing time. Despite this setback, the 32-year-old remains a global phenomenon, captivating fans and accumulating impressive financial rewards. In fact, even amidst his fitness challenges, Neymar managed to secure a staggering £96 million last year through a combination of salary and endorsement deals. His popularity continues to soar, and his financial success remains undeniable.

Renowned sharpshooter and Golden State Warriors legend Stephen Curry not only possesses an otherworldly talent for the game but also captivates audiences with his dazzling displays.

This NBA superstar, whose annual salary from the Warriors alone reaches a staggering £50 million, is truly a force to be reckoned with. In fact, he secured the prestigious title of one of the highest-paid athletes in 2023, raking in a remarkable £78.5 million that year, including endorsement deals. Notably, at 35 years old, Curry holds the record as the first NBA superstar to earn over $50 million per year solely in salary, solidifying his place as a basketball icon and a financial powerhouse.

Check out more sports news here.

Up Next

AFCON 2024: CAF Clears Nigeria, Sanctions Cote d’Ivoire, Others

Don't Miss

Cristiano Ronaldo Surprises Fans With Brand New Celebratory Move

SPORTS

Kano Pillars’ Usman Abdallah Urges Inclusion Of In-Form Musa In Nigeria’s CHAN Squad

Published

22 hours ago

November 4, 2024

Reporter

Usman Abdallah urges inclusion of Musa in Nigeria’s CHAN | fab.ng

Kano Pillars head coach, Usman Abdallah (50), is making a strong case for the inclusion of veteran winger Ahmed Musa (32) in Nigeria’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad.

This push comes after Musa’s return to his boyhood club Kano Pillars for a third stint. The move followed the termination of his contract by Turkish Super Lig team Sivasspor. Notably, Musa rejoined his international teammate Shehu Abdullahi at the Nigerian club.

Since returning to Pillars, Musa has experienced a career revival. His standout performances have been a key factor in the team’s success. In just three games, he already racked up an impressive four goals. His latest strike contributed to a crucial 2-1 victory over former champions Plateau United at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.

In a recent interview, coach Usman Abdallah actively advocated for Musa’s inclusion in the national team. He specifically emphasized the importance of the player’s experience for the upcoming CHAN qualifiers against Ghana. Abdallah believes Musa’s presence would be critical for the country’s B team.

“Technically, he’s eligible to play for the CHAN team now that he’s a locally based player. Whether he chooses to participate, however, is a different matter,” said the former Nigeria assistant coach.

“The CHAN team consists primarily of players from the local league, and Musa’s experience would be invaluable to the squad, as the strength of the CHAN team reflects the quality of the Nigerian league.

“Even if he’s not part of the squad, with the way things are progressing in the NPFL, we’ll still build a very strong team.”

The African Nations Championship (CHAN) is a CAF tournament exclusively for players who participate in their respective domestic leagues. The competition’s primary goal is to showcase the talent of homegrown players from each participating nation.

Ahead of the league match against Plateau United, coach Abdallah hailed the return of Musa and Shehu Abdullahi to the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) as a “revolution for Nigerian football.”

Should the in-form Kano Pillars star Ahmed Musa be included in the Nigeria CHAN squad?🤔

— Shina Oludare 🇳🇬 (@sportingshina) November 4, 2024

He stated,

“This is a welcome development for just for Kano Pillars but also for the Nigeria Professional Football League, because it has risen the standard of the league and this will also encourage players of the senior national team to return home so that we raise the quality and improve the local players at home.

“As you can see, 95% of the current Super Eagles squad are composed of foreign-based professionals and you see the ones playing at home are sometimes not called upon, unlike what we have in North and Southern African countries.

“I will say their coming is a revolution for Nigerian football that will open the door to see and follow up so that our league can be very competitive again and where it used to be in Africa.”

Recently, there has been a notable trend in Nigerian football. The former international players and those currently playing abroad returning to the NPFL in various capacities.

For instance, Arsenal legend Nwankwo Kanu now serves as the chairman of Enyimba. Other notable figures like Finidi George, Emmanuel Amuneke, and Daniel Amokachi have taken on roles at Rivers United, Heartland, and Lobi Stars, respectively.

According to Usman Abdallah,

“Education is crucial because modern football relies heavily on knowledge. In the 21st century, everything revolves around understanding, so it’s essential to enhance the skills of our coaches,” he added.

“I’m pleased with this season’s league because nearly all the top coaches and former internationals have returned. The likes of Finidi (George), (Emmanuel) Amuneke, Imama (Amapakabo), (Daniel) Amokachi, and my humble self.

“Everyone has returned now because the league is no longer just about competition; it’s focused on improving its quality.

“We need to elevate our standards, as football today is driven by knowledge. I’m pleased to see this progress in our coaching.”

Kano Pillars are the favourites to clinch the league title. They currently find themselves in eighth place with 14 points from 10 matches. Despite this unexpected position, the coach remains unfazed by any pressure.

He continued,

“I am not feeling any pressure to succeed at Kano Pillars. The fans are eager for the club’s pride to return, and everyone is committed to ensuring we’re at the top.

“I am keen to perform well. And I assure you that I haven’t experienced that level of pressure yet because we’re not doing poorly at the moment.”

Kano Pillars’ next match is an away game against Bendel Insurance at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Saturday.

Get more sports news here.

FOREIGN

World Number One Jannik Sinner Withdraws From The ATP Rolex Paris Masters 2024

Published

7 days ago

October 29, 2024

Reporter

Jannik Sinner withdraws from Paris Masters 2024 | fab.ng

Tournament organizers announced on Tuesday that world number one Jannik Sinner (23) will not participate in the Paris Masters indoor event due to health issues.

The 23-year-old tennis star, who secured his position as year-end world number one in mid-October, suffers from an “intestinal virus contracted before he arrived in Paris.” French player Arthur Cazaux has moved up from qualifying to take Sinner’s place in the tournament draw.

Cazaux will compete against either fellow Frenchman Corentin Moutet or American Ben Shelton in his second-round match on Tuesday.

Sinner now focuses on the upcoming Masters in Turin, scheduled for November 10-17, which will feature the year’s top eight players. The Italian champion plans to defend his country’s title at the Davis Cup finals the following week in Malaga, Spain.

This is not an easy announcement to make. My team and I arrived early to prepare as best as possible, but unfortunately, I started feeling unwell during training and saw the doctor on Sunday. It turns out I’ve come down with a virus. I’m feeling better now, but I’m still not… pic.twitter.com/TjE1a3KZQu

— Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) October 29, 2024

The tennis star has dominated the 2024 season, claiming his first two Grand Slam victories at the Australian Open and the US Open. His impressive performance includes seven tournament wins since the season began, with three Masters 1000 titles in Miami, Cincinnati, and Shanghai.

Recent developments have cast a shadow over Sinner’s achievements, as the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has filed an appeal that could result in his suspension. The doping case emerged several weeks ago and remains unresolved.

Sinner’s relationship with the Paris indoor tournament has proven complicated. Last year, he withdrew from the competition before his second match, establishing a pattern that continues with this year’s withdrawal.

This latest setback interrupts what has otherwise been a remarkable year for the young Italian player, who has firmly established himself among tennis’s elite competitors through his consistent performances and major tournament victories.

Get more sports news here.

SPORTS

Vinicius Junior Believes Fighting Racism Led To Ballon d’Or Defeat

Published

1 week ago

October 29, 2024

Reporter

Vinicius Junior Believes Racism Led To Ballon d'Or Defeat | fab.ng

Vinicius Junior, the 24-year-old Brazil and Real Madrid forward addressed his second-place finish in the Ballon d’Or voting on Monday. Sources close to the player revealed to Reuters that he plans to continue his fight against racism, regardless of how it might affect his chances of winning awards.

After finishing behind Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri, Vinicius shared his thoughts on social media platform X. “I will do it 10 times if I have to. They’re not ready,” he posted, following Real Madrid’s decision to boycott the Paris ceremony in anticipation of the Brazilian not winning the men’s award.

Vinicius Junior has reacted after finishing second in the vote for the Men’s #BallondOr. 🥶

Will he go on to clinch the award in 2025? ⏳ pic.twitter.com/Iz3pGP0PgK

— Flashscore.com (@Flashscorecom) October 28, 2024

His management team clarified to Reuters that the post referenced his anti-racism stance. They believe this activism cost him the award, stating that “the football world is not ready to accept a player who fights against the system.”

Spanish authorities have convicted at least two individuals for racially abusing the Brazil international. This marked groundbreaking legal cases in the country.

Real Madrid celebrated other victories at the ceremony. The club won the Men’s Club of the Year award. Meanwhile, Carlo Ancelotti received the Men’s Coach of the Year honour. This was after leading the team to European and Spanish league victories in a near-perfect season.

France Football, the award’s organizing body, has not responded to requests for comment. A panel of journalists from the top 100 FIFA-ranked countries determines the award winners through their votes.

Real Madrid teammate Eduardo Camavinga expressed his support on X, writing: “FOOTBALL POLITICS X. My brother, you are the best player in the world and no award can say otherwise. Love you my bro.” Multiple Real Madrid players joined in solidarity, sharing photos of Vinicius with captions declaring “You are the best.”

FOOTBALL POLITICS ❌

My brother you are the best player in the world and no award can say otherwise. Love you my bro ❤️ pic.twitter.com/X3yAH1Sl0p

— Eduardo Camavinga (@Camavinga) October 28, 2024

Brazilian football legend Marta voiced her disappointment on Instagram through a video message. She stated: “I waited all year for Vini Jr to be deservedly recognised as the best player in the world and now they come to tell me that the Ballon d’Or is not for him?”

Vinicius Junior played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s successful campaign. He helped the team secure both the Champions League and LaLiga titles. His teammate, 21-year-old Jude Bellingham, also made significant contributions during his first season with the club, scoring an impressive 19 goals.

Bellingham’s outstanding performance extended to international duty, where he helped lead England to the Euro 2024 final. The young English midfielder secured third place in the Ballon d’Or rankings. Indeed, he demonstrated the remarkable impact both he and Vinicius have made on the field.

Check out more sports news here.