Athlete earnings refer to the total income that professional sports players receive from various sources. This includes salaries from their respective teams, bonuses for performance, and endorsements from brands. For example, top athletes like LeBron James and Cristiano Ronaldo often earn significant amounts through sponsorship deals, which can sometimes exceed their sports salaries. In addition to direct earnings, many athletes also invest in businesses or engage in public speaking, further increasing their income. The rise of social media has also allowed athletes to monetize their personal brands, leading to new revenue streams through platforms like Instagram and YouTube.