Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: The top 50 athletes who made the most off-field earnings in 2022

Roger Federer Dominates Off-Field Business Earnings in 2022

Tennis legend Roger Federer has emerged as the undisputed leader in off-field business earnings for 2022, according to a comprehensive study by OLBG. The Swiss maestro, who retired from professional tennis in September, amassed an astonishing $90 million off the court, dwarfing the earnings of renowned athletes like LeBron James, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Federer’s Lucrative Endorsements

Federer’s staggering off-field earnings are primarily attributed to lucrative endorsement deals with renowned brands. These include a highly lucrative 10-year deal with Japanese clothing giant Uniqlo, worth a reported $30 million. Other notable endorsements include the Swiss bank Credit Suisse, the German car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz, and the watchmaker Rolex.

In addition to his direct endorsements, Federer has also invested in various ventures, including a stake in the Swiss sports management company Team8 and a partnership with the sneaker brand On. These investments have further contributed to his off-field wealth.

James Follows Closely

Following closely behind Federer is Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, who earned an impressive $80 million off the court in 2022. James has established himself as a global icon, leveraging his fame and influence to secure lucrative deals with brands such as Nike, McDonald’s, and Walmart.

Beyond endorsements, James has also expanded his business interests into media and entertainment. He co-founded the production company SpringHill Entertainment and launched the youth basketball league NXT Level.

Messi and Ronaldo Trail

Two of the world’s most celebrated footballers, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, ranked fifth and sixth respectively on the list of off-field business earnings. Messi earned $55 million, while Ronaldo earned $55 million. Both players have built their off-field wealth through a combination of endorsements, investments, and business ventures.

Off-Field Wealth: A Growing Trend

The substantial off-field earnings of athletes like Federer, James, Messi, and Ronaldo underscore the growing significance of personal branding and business acumen in modern sports. Athletes are increasingly diversifying their income streams and leveraging their platforms to establish successful business ventures.

Conclusion

Roger Federer’s dominance of off-field business earnings in 2022 is a testament to his unparalleled stature and global appeal. His ability to translate his sporting success into lucrative endorsements and investments has solidified his legacy as one of the most financially successful athletes of all time.