Wealthy African athletes are more than just sports stars; they are catalysts for change and development. Their success stories, investments, and philanthropic endeavors substantially contribute to the continent's socioeconomic development. As they continue to smash records and barriers, they inspire a new generation to dream larger and accomplish more, ushering in a better future for Africa.
From boxing to football to basketball, athletes of African descent continue to push the boundaries of the athletic caliber that come from the continent.
Their status and affluence proffer the motivation necessary to both develop the talents and the programs at home. Socially, these sportsmen are role models for millions of young Africans. Their success stories inspire kids to pursue careers in sports, education, and entrepreneurship.
Forbes recently released its World's 50 Highest-Paid Athletes List. The athletes listed together hauled in an estimated $3.88 billion over the last 12 months before taxes and agents' fees, a 13% higher than the record $3.44 billion set last year.
A few Africans contributed to this growth and below are 5 of them mentioned in the Forbes list.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
This NBA star is the highest paid African athlete in 2024. With a 5 years max contract of $228,200,420 contract with the Milwaukee Bucks, including $228,200,420 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $45,640,084, he made $111 million during the 2024 financial year, $46 million from basketball and $65 million from off-court earnings, majorly endorsement deals.
Anthony Joshua
Anthony Joshua is a British Nigerian boxer who recently won his last bout against fellow African combat athlete, Cameroon's Francis Ngannou, for which he raked in $50 million. For the year, he earned a total of $83 million, $75 million from his fights and $8 million from endorsements and other deals.
Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid hails from Cameroon and currently plays for the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers, he is the 3rd highest paid African athlete in the Forbes list. He signed a four-year, $213.3 million extension with the 76ers in 2022. This year he earned a total of $57.7 million, $47.7 million in on-court earnings and $10 million off the court.
Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah Egyptian professional football player, commonly known as Mo Salah, plays as a right winger or striker for the Premier League team Liverpool. He signed a 3 year, $54,600,000 contract with the Liverpool F.C., including an average annual salary of $18,200,000. In 2024 he earned $53 million total, $35 million from football and $18 million from non-football activities.
Sadio Mane
Senegalese football player Sadio Mané is a professional who plays forward or winger for both the Senegalese national team and Al Nassr, a Saudi Pro League Club. He signed a contract until 2027, which means he could earn up to £136 million if he completes the term. According to the Forbes list he earned a total of $52 million in 2024, $48 million from football and $4 million from other engagements.
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