According to reports, James’ total income (after deducting inflation factors) reaches US$1.7 billion, currently ranking fifth in the world of athletes and second in basketball, second only to Michael Jordan (US$3.75 billion).
The list of the 50 highest-paid athletes was announced, with data as of the end of 2023. The combined earnings of these 50 athletes, adjusted for inflation, reach $50 billion. The income mentioned here includes salary, bonuses, endorsements, licensing, media and company equity income, etc. The top five are Jordan ($3.75 billion), Woods ($2.66 billion), Ronaldo ($1.92 billion), Arnold Palmer ($1.76 billion) and James ($1.7 billion).
Among the 50 players, basketball players have the largest number, reaching 12, followed by golf, with a total of 8 players. Boxing and racing each have 7 people on the list, tennis has 5 people, football and American football have 4 people each, baseball has 2 people, and mixed martial arts has 1 person.
The 12 basketball players on the list are all from the NBA. In addition to No. 1 Jordan and No. 5 James, there are also No. 13 O’Neal (1.21 billion), No. 14 Kobe Bryant (1.09 billion), and No. 17 Durant ( 955 million), 21st Curry (770 million), 34th Magic (645 million), 39th Garnett (635 million), 42nd Westbrook (620 million), 44th Paul ( 575 million), No. 45 Harden (570 million) and No. 47 Wade (565 million).
James is the highest-paid NBA player currently. His income in 2023 will reach $126 million, ranking fourth among all athletes. Next season, his total annual salary will exceed $500 million. He endorses many brands and has a lifetime contract with Nike with an annual income of more than US$30 million.