Top Highest-Paid Athletes in 2022
Forbes reported that Cristiano Ronaldo became the highest-paid athlete in 2022, earning an estimated $260 million in total income, with the majority coming from off-field contracts and social media monetization. Forbes athlete earnings list
Lionel Messi ranked second with $130 million, while Lionel Messi's contract structure with Paris Saint-Germain combined with endorsement deals from Adidas and other brands drove his placement on the list. Forbes athlete earnings list
Income Breakdown by Sport and Gender
In the NBA, LeBron James led with $121.2 million in total earnings, combining his $41.2 million salary with $80 million in off-court income from SpringHill Company, Nike, and other ventures. Forbes athlete earnings list
Among women athletes, Serena Williams topped the list with $35.9 million, with her final US Open season and long-term endorsement portfolio from Nike, Gatorade, and other partners contributing to her earnings. Forbes athlete earnings list
Endorsements, Business Ventures, and Income Drivers
Major Endorsement Deals
Cristiano Ronaldo's social media following, with over 500 million combined followers across Instagram and other platforms, made him one of the most marketable athletes, supporting deals with Herbalife, CR7 brand, and other sponsors. Forbes athlete earnings list
Business and Investment Income
LeBron James' SpringHill Company, a media and entertainment venture, along with his stake in Liverpool FC and other investments, generated substantial passive income that pushed him past many peers in total compensation. Forbes athlete earnings list
