These Are The World’s Highest-Paid Athletes (And How They Really Make Their Money)

Annual income: $27 million*
Net worth: $250 million*

Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” is universally celebrated as the greatest hockey player ever. Born on January 26, 1961, in Brantford, Ontario, Gretzky’s NHL career shattered records, setting new benchmarks for points and assists that still stand. 

Wayne Gretzky - Hockey @britannica/Pinterest.com

Beyond his playing days, Gretzky has remained a prominent figure in hockey through various roles, including coaching and team ownership, alongside lucrative endorsements and business ventures. With an annual income that has reached up to $27 million from these activities, and a net worth of $250 million, Gretzky’s legacy extends off the ice, embodying the pinnacle of success in the world of professional hockey.

Annual income: $775,000*
Net worth: $30 million*

Nathan MacKinnon, a central figure for the Colorado Avalanche, has emerged as one of the NHL’s most electrifying forwards. Born on September 1, 1995, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, MacKinnon’s blend of speed, skill, and scoring ability has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats. 

Nathan MacKinnon - Hockey @gq/Pinterest.com

With a net worth estimated at $30 million, MacKinnon’s financial success aligns with his on-ice achievements, including leading his team to a Stanley Cup victory and earning individual accolades that underscore his elite status.

Annual income: $9.5 million*
Net worth: $80 million*

Alexander Ovechkin, the Russian winger for the Washington Capitals, is one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history. Born on September 17, 1985, in Moscow, Ovechkin’s combination of size, skill, and sheer scoring instinct has made him a generational talent. 

Alexander Ovechkin - Hockey ©AP PHOTO/Getty Images

His achievements include numerous Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophies as the league’s top goal scorer and a long-awaited Stanley Cup victory in 2018. Off the ice, his endorsements and NHL contract, which provides him with an annual income of $9.5 million, have contributed to a net worth of $80 million.

Annual income: $12.5 million*
Net worth: $30 million*

Connor McDavid, the captain of the Edmonton Oilers, is universally recognized as one of the most gifted players in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on January 13, 1997, in Richmond Hill, Ontario, McDavid’s speed, vision, and scoring ability have set new standards for what it means to be an elite forward in the modern era. 

Connor McDavid - Hockey ©Mark Blinch/Getty Images

Since being drafted first overall in 2015, his impact on the ice has been transformative, earning him multiple Hart Trophies as the league’s MVP. 

Annual income: $4 million*
Net worth: $58 million*

Jacob Trouba, a defenseman for the New York Rangers, is known for his physical play and leadership on the ice. Born on February 26, 1994, in Rochester, Michigan, Trouba’s NHL journey began with the Winnipeg Jets before he was traded to the Rangers, where he quickly became a cornerstone of their defense. 

Jacob Trouba - Hockey @thehockeywriters/Pinterest.com

His commitment to the Rangers was solidified through a significant seven-year contract, reflecting his importance to the team’s structure and future. Trouba’s role as a top defenseman in the league is evident through his on-ice performance and financial achievements.

Annual income: $27 million*
Net worth: $70 million*

Mookie Betts, an outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has solidified his reputation as one of the most dynamic players in Major League Baseball. Born on October 7, 1992, in Nashville, Tennessee, Betts has a career highlighted by an MVP award, multiple Gold Gloves, and a key role in World Series victories with both the Boston Red Sox and the Dodgers. 

Mookie Betts - Baseball ©HARRY HOW /Getty Images

His prowess on both offense and defense, coupled with his leadership qualities, led to a massive 12-year, $365 million extension with the Dodgers, underscoring his value to the team.

Annual income: $12 million*
Net worth: $80 million*

Freddie Freeman, a cornerstone of the Atlanta Braves before moving to the Los Angeles Dodgers, is celebrated for his consistency and leadership on and off the field. Born on September 12, 1989, in Fountain Valley, California, Freeman’s career is adorned with achievements, including a National League MVP award and a World Series championship. 

Freddie Freeman - Baseball ©Todd Kirkland/Getty Images

His excellence at first base and his impact as a hitter have earned him a reputation as one of the game’s best. Freeman’s annual income of $12 million and a net worth of $80 million reflect his elite status and the high regard in which he is held within the sport, making him one of baseball’s most respected figures.

Annual income: $5.9 million*
Net worth: $23 million*

J.T. Realmuto, recognized widely as one of Major League Baseball’s top catchers, plays for the Philadelphia Phillies. Born on March 18, 1991, in Del City, Oklahoma, Realmuto’s athleticism and skill behind the plate, combined with his prowess at bat, have set him apart in the league. 

J.T. Realmuto - Baseball @inquirer/Pinterest.com

His journey from the Miami Marlins to the Phillies was marked by a significant contract that reflects his value to the team, with an annual income of $5.9 million. With a net worth estimated at $23 million, Realmuto’s accolades include multiple All-Star selections and Gold Glove Awards, underscoring his status as a pivotal player in modern baseball.

Annual income: $7 million*
Net worth: $13 million*

Keylor Navas, the Costa Rican goalkeeper, has been celebrated for his exceptional performances with Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. Born on December 15, 1986, Navas’ agility and heroic saves were pivotal in Real Madrid’s three consecutive UEFA Champions League victories. 

Keylor Navas - Soccer ©Marco Canoniero/Alamy

Transitioning to PSG, his contributions have remained invaluable, securing domestic titles and further establishing his legacy. With a net worth of $13 million, Navas is not just a national hero for Costa Rica but also a globally respected figure among the footballing elite, known for his humble demeanor and outstanding work ethic.

Annual income: $3 million*
Net worth: $8 million*

Thibaut Courtois, the Belgian goalkeeper, stands as one of soccer’s premier shot-stoppers. Born on May 11, 1992, Courtois’ career has seen him guard the nets for Chelsea and Real Madrid, among others, winning numerous titles including the Premier League and La Liga, as well as the UEFA Champions League. 

Thibaut Courtois - Soccer ©Sportimage Ltd/Alamy

His towering presence and remarkable reflexes have made him a cornerstone for both club and country. His accolades, including multiple Golden Glove awards, underscore his status as one of the world’s elite goalkeepers.

Annual income: $6 million*
Net worth: $24 million*

Yerry Mina, with his imposing stature and defensive acumen, has become an integral figure in soccer, representing both Everton in the Premier League and the Colombian national team with distinction. Since transitioning from South American football to Europe, Mina’s journey has been marked by significant milestones, including a stint with Barcelona before solidifying his place at Everton. 

Yerry Mina - Soccer ©Danehouse/Getty Images

Renowned for his aerial dominance and threat on set pieces, Mina’s contributions extend beyond defense, often turning him into a scoring asset. Commanding an annual income of $6 million and a net worth of $24 million, Mina’s journey from Colombia to the global stage embodies the dream of aspiring athletes everywhere.

Annual income: Unknown
Net worth: $3 million*

Egan Bernal, the prodigious Colombian cyclist, etched his name into the annals of cycling by clinching the 2019 Tour de France, heralding his arrival as a global sensation. His triumph was not just a personal victory but a monumental achievement for Colombian cycling, showcasing his extraordinary climbing prowess and resilience. 

Egan Bernal - Cycling @cyclingnews/Pinterest.com

Despite facing challenges, including a severe crash in 2022, Bernal’s spirit remained unbroken, underlining his relentless determination and passion for the sport. While specifics about his annual income remain undisclosed, his success, including a Giro d’Italia win, contributes to an estimated net worth of $3 million, reflecting his status as one of cycling’s most inspiring figures.

Annual income: $5 million*
Net worth: $31 million*

Primoz Roglic, another Slovenian cycling star, has established himself as a dominant force in the world of professional cycling. Born on October 29, 1989, Roglic’s transition from ski jumping to cycling is a testament to his incredible athletic versatility and determination. 

Primoz Roglic - Cycling ©Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

With victories in the Vuelta a España and numerous other stage races, Roglic’s consistency and time-trialling excellence have made him a perennial contender in Grand Tours. His annual income of $5 million, stemming from his role as a key rider for Team Jumbo-Visma and endorsements, reflects his elite status in the sport. 

Annual income: $6.5 million*
Net worth: $40 million*

Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian cycling prodigy, has taken the professional cycling world by storm with his extraordinary achievements at a young age. Born on September 21, 1998, Pogačar’s name became synonymous with resilience and talent following his sensational wins in the Tour de France in 2020 and 2021. 

Tadej Pogačar - Cycling ©Associated Press/Alamy

His aggressive riding style, coupled with remarkable climbing abilities and time-trialling prowess, has made him one of the most exciting cyclists to watch. Commanding an annual income of $6.5 million, primarily from his team salary with UAE Team Emirates and lucrative endorsement deals, Pogačar’s financial success is well-earned.