In the world of sports, success and talent are often rewarded with lucrative contracts and endorsement deals. While it’s not uncommon for athletes to earn substantial sums of money, it’s particularly impressive when young stars rise to the top of the earnings leaderboard. This article focuses on the top five highest-paid athletes under 25, who have not only achieved remarkable success in their respective sports but have also amassed considerable wealth at a young age.
5. Luka Doncic:
Despite a disappointing end to the season for the Dallas Mavericks, Luka Doncic’s career trajectory has been nothing short of exceptional. The 22-year-old guard has already made four appearances on the all-NBA first team and secured a five-year, $207 million contract extension. Off the court, Doncic collaborated with Nike’s Jordan Brand to release a signature shoe, with a new edition expected to hit retail shelves soon.
4. Erling Haaland:
Bursting onto the scene in England’s Premier League, Erling Haaland has quickly established himself as one of the most prolific goal scorers. Since joining Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund, the 20-year-old forward has scored an impressive 36 goals in league play, setting a Premier League record. Haaland’s remarkable performances earned him a long-term contract with Nike, rumored to be one of the most significant shoe sponsorships in football.
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3. Max Verstappen:
In the world of Formula 1, Max Verstappen has been dominating the tracks. The 25-year-old Dutch driver won a record-breaking 15 out of 22 races in 2022, securing his second consecutive drivers’ championship. His success on the racecourse translated into a substantial raise when he signed a new contract with Red Bull Racing in 2022. Verstappen is rumored to receive lucrative bonuses for both race wins and the season-long title.
2. Kyler Murray:
As the quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, Murray has quickly made a name for himself in the NFL. Following his second consecutive Pro Bowl appearance, Murray signed a five-year contract extension worth up to $230.5 million. This deal included significant signing and option bonuses. Despite controversy surrounding a film-study requirement, Murray’s talent and marketability have helped him secure a place among the highest-paid athletes under 25.
1. Kylian Mbappé:
The 24-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward has had a meteoric rise in the soccer world. Not only has he helped France reach the World Cup final and finished second in the Best FIFA Men’s Player Award, but he has also become PSG’s all-time leading scorer. Mbappé’s recent contract extension with PSG, estimated at $100 million in playing salary and bonuses, propelled his earnings to a staggering $120 million in the last year. His on-field success is matched by valuable endorsement deals with partners like Nike, Dior, and Sorare.
These five young athletes have not only showcased their incredible skills and abilities on the field but have also leveraged their success to secure substantial earnings. While their sports vary, they all have one thing in common: a remarkable talent that has propelled them to the top of the earnings charts at such a young age. As their careers continue to evolve, it’s likely we’ll see their names atop the list of highest-paid athletes for years to come.
