Shohei Ohtani News Announced During MLB Season

Shohei Ohtani Joins Sports' Global Elite

According to Forbes' 2026 list of the world's highest-paid athletes, Ohtani ranked fifth overall with estimated earnings of $127.6 million over the past year.

Only Cristiano Ronaldo, Canelo Alvarez, Lionel Messi and LeBron James finished ahead of him.

That company alone tells the story.

These are athletes whose influence stretches across continents and industries. Their impact goes beyond what happens during games, matches or fights. Ohtani now belongs firmly in that conversation.

The Dodgers superstar finished ahead of Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Patrick Mahomes, Giannis Antetokounmpo and every other active Major League Baseball player on the list.

Ohtani's Reach Extends Far Beyond MLB

What makes Ohtani's ranking even more remarkable is where the money came from.

Forbes estimated that Ohtani earned just $2.6 million from on-field income over the last year while generating an astounding $125 million off the field through endorsements, sponsorships and business ventures.

That off-field total was larger than the entire annual earnings of most athletes on the list.

It is also a reflection of Ohtani's unique appeal.

He is a baseball icon in Japan, one of the biggest stars in Los Angeles and one of the most recognizable athletes anywhere in the world. Brands continue to line up for partnerships because Ohtani appeals to audiences across multiple continents in a way few athletes can match.

His popularity has only grown since signing his historic contract with the Dodgers and helping lead the franchise to consecutive World Series championships.

The Dodgers Landed More Than A Baseball Player

When the Dodgers signed Ohtani to his record-setting contract before the 2024 season, they were acquiring one of the game's greatest talents.

What they received was something even bigger. Ohtani has become a global phenomenon whose impact reaches far beyond baseball. His jersey sales consistently rank among the best in sports. His games attract worldwide attention. His achievements routinely become international news.

Few athletes possess that type of influence. The latest Forbes rankings highlight a reality that has become impossible to ignore: Ohtani is no longer just baseball's biggest star. He's one of the biggest stars in all of sports. And judging by the trajectory of his career, his influence may still be growing.