Michael Jordan tops list of highest-paid athletes of all-time

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Zack Pearson | Last updated Apr 1, 2026 9:57 PM ET

It’s been over 20 years since Michael Jordan retired from the game of basketball in 1993. But since then, he’s found other ways to stay busy including his successful NASCAR team in 23XI Racing.

He’s also raking in the money still.

Jordan made an estimated $250 million in 2025 just off of the Nike brand alone, which his Jordan Brand is under. That’s merchandise including shoes, clothes and more. With the $250 million, it helped Jordan keep his spot as the highest-paid athlete of all time per Sportico.

Michael Jordan beats out other athletes for highest-paid

NASCAR: Cup Qualifying 23XI Racing team owner Michael Jordan during qualifying for the Cup Series championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

When Sportico released its list of the highest-paid athletes of all-time, it wasn’t shocking to see Jordan at the top. But it was a little surprising to see how much he’s actually made. The site estimates that Jordan has made $4.5 billion when adjusted for inflation. Without the adjustment, he’s made $3.28 billion.

He’s atop the list beating out Tiger Woods, Cristiano Ronaldo, LeBron James and Lionel Messi who round out the top five.

Michael Jordan earned more than any active or retired athlete in 2025, pushing his career-earnings to $4.5 BILLION.

MJ remains the highest-paid athlete of all-time. (via @Sportico) pic.twitter.com/yFTsKtg1ru

— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) April 1, 2026

Jordan has been the leader on this list for quite some time now. But this year, he extended that lead over Woods from $850 million to $1.31 billion over the last year. This also comes as Jordan Brand revenue dropped by 16 percent in fiscal 2025. But even so, the brand generated $7.3 billion over that same time period.

Jordan has a 3.4 percent cut in that and the brand generated 70 times more sales volume compared to other signature basketball lines.

NBA players dominated the list with a total of 13 athletes in the top 50. The rankings do account for far more than just salaries as endorsements, media ventures, appearance fees and licensing deals are among the things factored in.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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