Our first star athlete is Cristiano Ronaldo. Cristiano Ronaldo plays soccer professionally. He won five FIFA Player of the Year awards. Only he can challenge Lionel Messi. Born in 1985 in Madeira, Portugal.
He played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, the world's most successful soccer clubs. About $60 million is his annual compensation. He makes good money through endorsements. His Nike contract is lifetime.
No introduction is needed for the following athlete. Messi is Lionel. Capt. of the winning Argentina soccer squad. Rosario, Argentina, was his birthplace in 1987.
Besides representing his country, Lionel Messi played for Barcelona. He is one of the best soccer players ever. His soccer wages and endorsements brought him $130 million last year.
Professional basketball player Lebron James is excellent. NBA player for Los Angeles Lakers. His birthdate is December 30, 1984, in Akron, Ohio. Lebron has led many Lakers championship teams.
He joined the Lakers in 2018 and helped them win the NBA in 2020. He made a lot of money using his talent. His basketball salary is $44.5 million, but his off-field earnings are $75 million. He has various endorsements and enterprises.
Canelo Álvarez is a Mexican professional boxer. Canelo Álvarez was born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, on July 18, 1990. One of the richest boxers. Boxing and sponsorships are Alvarez's main sources of income.
He has many high-profile fights, including a lucrative DAZN agreement. He also endorses Hennessy. Alvarez faced Dmitry Bivol and Gennadiy Golovkin last year. About $100 million came from these fights. Alvarez owns Canelo Energy, Carlo Promotions, etc. This lets him earn more and perhaps get richer.
Phil Mickelson plays golf professionally. San Diego was his birthplace on June 16, 1970. He is considered a generational golfing great. Mickelson won several tournaments and major championships.
He is 2023's highest-paid golfer. Most of his $106 million this year comes from his LIV golf tour. In 2023, he met Brooks Koepka at the Master's competition and earned more. Mickelson co-founded For Wellness coffee supplements. He makes money through his brand.
Stephen Curry is another famous American basketball player. He was born in Akron, Ohio, on March 14, 1988. Curry is considered an NBA outstanding shooter. Curry has won many awards, including NBA MVP in 2015 and 2016.
He has been an NBA All-Star and guided the Warriors to three NBA titles in 2015, 2017, and 2018. In 2023, he shines too. He made $48.4 million in 2023 with his record-breaking performances. Around $52 million comes from brand endorsements and investments. He has a long-term Under Armour contract. About $100.4 million was his 2023 revenue.