Sportspersons are among the highest paid individuals in the world. Not only do they earn a lot through participation in sporting events, but also through various endorsements via their sponsors. These athletes are well known in their field and excel in it. While every sportsperson earns enough to make one reconsider their career goals, some of them earn more than others. Here is a list of the top 10 richest athletes in the world.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo- $88M

Real Madrid striker Ronaldo earns an annual salary of $56M and earns a further $32M through endorsements.

2. Lionel Messi- $81.4M

The Barcelona playmaker earns an annual salary of $53.4M and earns a further $28M through endorsements.

3. LeBron James- $77.2M

King James earns $23.2M through games, but also earns $54M through endorsements

4. Roger Federer- $67.8M

Federer earns $7.8M while playing and earns $60M through endorsements.
5. Kevin Durant- $56.2M

Durant earns $20.2M while playing and earns $36M through endorsements.

6. Novak Djokovic- $55.8M

Djokovic earns $21.8M while playing and earns $34M through endorsements.
7. Kobe Bryant- $50M

The now retired Bryant earned $25M while playing and earned $25M through endorsements.

8. Lewis Hamilton- $46M

Hamilton earns $42M while racing and earns $4M through endorsements.

9. Tiger Woods- $45.3M

The golfing legend earns $274k while playing and earns $45M through endorsements.

10. Sebastian Vettel- $41M

Vettel earns $40M while racing and earns $1M through endorsements.