Deji WilliamsLionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has long been a fixture at the top of earnings lists. With his move to Inter Miami in 2023, his popularity and income continued to soar, but remarkably, there are still athletes who will out-earn the Argentine star in 2024. In a world where elite sports stars command massive salaries, endorsements, and other revenue streams, here are the four players who are projected to make more than Messi in the upcoming year.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
It’s no surprise that Messi’s longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo tops the list. After his groundbreaking move to Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo’s earnings skyrocketed. Between his hefty salary and bonuses from the Saudi Pro League and his unparalleled endorsement deals, Ronaldo is expected to earn an eye-popping amount in 2024. His lucrative partnership with brands like Nike, Herbalife, and CR7-branded ventures also add millions to his total earnings, making him the highest-paid athlete in the world once again.
2. Kylian Mbappé
At just 25 years old, Kylian Mbappé is already one of the biggest names in global sports, and his earnings reflect that status. The French superstar’s contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) remains one of the most lucrative deals in football, but it’s his potential move in 2024—whether staying at PSG or joining another top club—that will continue to drive his income. Additionally, Mbappé’s endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, EA Sports, and Hublot are pushing his annual earnings well above Messi’s in 2024.
3. LeBron James
Even though he’s deep into his NBA career, LeBron James shows no signs of slowing down—either on the court or in terms of his earnings. The Los Angeles Lakers legend has amassed an enormous fortune through his playing salary, endorsements, and business ventures. LeBron’s media empire, including his production company SpringHill Entertainment, plus partnerships with Nike, Beats by Dre, and more, make him one of the highest-paid athletes in 2024. His influence extends far beyond basketball, solidifying him as a global icon with earnings to match.
4. Stephen Curry
Another NBA superstar earning more than Messi in 2024 is Stephen Curry. The Golden State Warriors point guard is not only one of the most recognizable faces in the league but also a marketing powerhouse. Curry’s multi-million dollar deal with Under Armour, which includes a signature shoe line, contributes significantly to his earnings. Combine that with his NBA salary and additional endorsements, and Curry is well-positioned to surpass Messi on the earnings list this year.
Why Messi Is Still a Financial Powerhouse
Despite being out-earned by these four superstars, Lionel Messi remains one of the highest-paid athletes globally. His contract with Inter Miami is substantial, especially when factoring in his stake in team ownership and MLS-related revenue. Furthermore, Messi’s lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Adidas, Pepsi, and Apple, along with his involvement in various ventures, ensure he remains one of the world’s wealthiest athletes.
The Global Landscape of Athlete Earnings
The fact that four athletes will out-earn Lionel Messi in 2024 highlights just how massive the financial landscape of global sports has become. It’s no longer just about salary but also about endorsements, business ventures, and investments that boost income to astronomical levels. Football may be the world’s most popular sport, but stars from the NBA and football’s biggest rivalries are showing that elite athletes can build empires that extend far beyond their primary profession.
In 2024, the race for the title of the highest-paid athlete continues to be a close one, but for now, Ronaldo, Mbappé, LeBron, and Curry have taken the top spots, while Messi remains an undeniable financial and sporting force.
