Wealthy African athletes transcend their roles as sports icons; they serve as catalysts for change and development. Their tales of triumph, strategic investments, and philanthropic initiatives significantly contribute to the socioeconomic progress of the continent. By continuously shattering records and barriers, they instill a sense of ambition in the next generation, paving the way for a brighter future across Africa.
Across various sports, from boxing to football to basketball, athletes of African descent continually redefine the standards of athletic excellence originating from the continent. Their prominence and prosperity provide the impetus needed to nurture both talent and programs locally. Socially, these sports figures serve as beacons of inspiration for millions of young Africans. Their journeys inspire youths to pursue careers in sports, education, and entrepreneurship.
Forbes recently unveiled its annual list of the world’s 50 highest-paid athletes, collectively amassing an estimated $3.88 billion over the past year before taxes and agent fees—an increase of 13% compared to the previous record of $3.44 billion. Several Africans have contributed to this surge, with five notable mentions highlighted in the Forbes roster.
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Giannis Antetokounmpo emerges as the highest-earning African athlete in 2024. With a five-year max contract worth $228,200,420 with the Milwaukee Bucks, including $228,200,420 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $45,640,084, he amassed $111 million in the 2024 fiscal year—$46 million from basketball and $65 million from off-court earnings, primarily through endorsement deals.
Anthony Joshua, a British-Nigerian boxer, secured his position as one of the top-paid African athletes, earning a total of $83 million in the past year. Notably, his victory over fellow African combat athlete, Cameroon’s Francis Ngannou, added $50 million to his earnings. Of this sum, $75 million stemmed from his fights, while $8 million came from endorsements and other deals.
Hailing from Cameroon, Joel Embiid ranks as the third highest-paid African athlete on the Forbes list. As a key player for the NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers, he inked a four-year, $213.3 million extension in 2022. In 2024, he accrued a total of $57.7 million, with $47.7 million derived from on-court earnings and $10 million from off-court ventures.
Egyptian football sensation Mohamed Salah, widely known as Mo Salah, commands a significant presence on the global stage. Playing for the Premier League’s Liverpool F.C., Salah secured a three-year, $54,600,000 contract, boasting an average annual salary of $18,200,000. In 2024, his earnings totaled $53 million, with $35 million stemming from football and $18 million from non-football activities.
Sadio Mané, a Senegalese football prodigy, showcases his talent both on the field and in the earnings department. Representing the Senegalese national team and Al Nassr, a Saudi Pro League Club, Mané’s contract until 2027 promises potential earnings of up to £136 million. According to Forbes, he amassed a total of $52 million in 2024, with $48 million attributed to football and $4 million to other engagements.