Who are the highest-paid athletes across the sports world in 2024?

Athletes' salaries are among the most lucrative of any profession. But even among athletes, there are a select few who have signed contracts that really stand out for their eye-popping value.

In the last couple of years alone, multiple salary records have been broken across several sports leagues as teams and brands have become more valuable. That has trickled down to allow athletes to sign even more lucrative deals.

There can only be one "highest-paid" athlete in each sport, though. While the top contracts usually match up with the best athlete in a given sport, that isn't always the case. Some happen to get lucky with the outlook of the market and – when applicable – the height of the salary cap matching up with the timing of their contract negotiations.

Here are the highest-paid athletes in each of the top U.S. leagues and world's sports by average annual value, with contract information courtesy of Spotrac:

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World's highest-paid athletes in 2024

NFL

Dak Prescott, QB, Dallas Cowboys: Four years, $240 million ($60 million per year), $231 million guaranteed

MLB

Shohei Ohtani, RHP/DH, Los Angeles Dodgers: 10 years, $700 million ($70 million per year).

Ohtani deferred most of the money on his contract. He will make $2 million per year for the next 10 years, then receive the remaining $680 million paid out without interest from 2034 to 2043.

SHOHEI OHTANI: Dodgers star chases 50-50 before first postseason trip

NBA

Jayson Tatum, PF, Boston Celtics: Five years, $313.9 million ($62.79 million per year)

WNBA

Jackie Young, G, Las Vegas Aces: Two years, $504,900 ($252,450 per year)

NHL

Leon Draisaitl, C, Edmonton Oilers: Eight years, $112 million ($14 million per year)

LEON DRAISAITL: Oilers' center becomes highest-paid NHL player with $112 million deal

Soccer

According to multiple reports, Cristiano Ronaldo is the highest-paid soccer player in the world with his $75 million-per-year contract with Saudi club Al-Nassr.

Motorsports

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing: Five years, $275 million ($55 million per year)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Highest-paid athletes across major sports in 2024