Cristiano Ronaldo Leads the Pack in 2024’s Highest-Paid Athletes List
On Wednesday, Sportico released its highly anticipated list of the top 100 highest-paid athletes for 2024. The list spans eight different sports, with a notable presence of boxers but notably absent are any MMA fighters. At the helm of this prestigious roster is soccer legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who reportedly earned a staggering $260 million this year. The lion’s share of Ronaldo’s earnings, a breathtaking $215 million, comes from his salary at the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. This astronomical figure not only underscores Ronaldo’s continued prowess on the field but also highlights the lucrative opportunities available in Middle Eastern sports markets. It’s a testament to his enduring global appeal and the significant financial investments clubs are willing to make for star players.
Combat Sports Representation: Boxers Dominate, MMA Athletes Miss Out
In the realm of combat sports, the absence of MMA fighters on the list is particularly striking. While six boxers made the cut, no MMA athlete managed to break into the top 100. This year, Forbes, which has historically included prominent UFC athletes like Conor McGregor, did not feature any MMA fighters. McGregor, who once topped the list in 2021 with $180 million in earnings from fights, endorsements, and the sale of his whiskey company Proper No. 12, is notably absent in this iteration. The focus on boxing highlights the ongoing disparity between the two combat sports in terms of financial rewards and media coverage. It also raises questions about the future trajectory of MMA in the global sports economy and whether the landscape will shift to favor more MMA athletes in the coming years.
Tyson Fury: The Highest-Ranking Boxer
Among the boxers, Tyson Fury stands out as the highest-ranking combat sports athlete, coming in at No. 3 on the list with a total of $147 million in earnings. Fury’s earnings are predominantly from his fight purses, reflecting the significant financial stakes in high-profile boxing matches. His recent victories and the drama surrounding his bouts with Oleksandr Usyk have only amplified his market value. Usyk, who defeated Fury twice in the past year, secured the No. 7 spot with $122 million in earnings. Like Fury, Usyk’s substantial income is largely derived from his fight purses, which underscores the lucrative nature of professional boxing, especially for top-tier fighters. The dynamic between these two fighters has captivated fans and media alike, contributing to their high earnings and continued spotlight.
Jake Paul: From YouTube to the Boxing Ring
Jake Paul, a social influencer turned professional boxer, made a significant impact on the list, ranking at No. 52 with a reported $48 million in earnings for the year. Paul’s income is primarily from his fight purses, with a noteworthy $38 million from his bouts. An additional $10 million came from endorsement deals and sponsorships, signaling the crossover appeal and commercial viability of social media stars in the world of sports. Paul’s standout performance in 2024 included his highly publicized showdown against Mike Tyson, which was streamed on Netflix and attracted over 100 million subscribers. This event not only solidified Paul’s status as a marketable athlete but also demonstrated the growing interest in boxing among a younger, digitally savvy audience.
Other Notable Boxers on the List
The list also features other prominent boxers, contributing to the sport’s strong representation. Canelo Alvarez, a multiple-time world champion, secured the No. 20 position with $73 million in earnings. Alvarez’s consistent performance and popularity have made him a perennial top earner in the sport. Anthony Joshua, a former heavyweight champion, came in at No. 30 with $60 million. His return to form and high-profile matches have helped him maintain a strong financial position. Naoya Inoue, known for his dominance in the lighter weight classes, claimed the No. 81 spot with $42 million in earnings. The presence of these athletes on the list underscores the financial health and global appeal of professional boxing, a sport that continues to attract significant investments from fans and sponsors alike.
Reflection on the Future of Sports Earnings and Representation
The 2024 Sportico list provides a snapshot of the current sports economy, where traditional sports like soccer and boxing continue to command the highest financial rewards. However, the absence of MMA fighters and women’s athletes highlights ongoing challenges in these areas. While MMA has grown significantly in popularity, it appears that the financial infrastructure and sponsorship landscape are still lagging behind more established sports. Similarly, the lack of women’s representation in the top 100 is a reminder of the persistent gender pay gap in professional sports. As the world of sports evolves, with emerging markets and digital platforms playing increasingly important roles, it will be crucial to address these disparities. The future may see a more balanced and inclusive list, reflecting the diverse and dynamic nature of the global sports industry.
