#9 of 10 World’s Highest-Paid Athletes In 2014 And How They Made Their Money

#9 Rafael Nadal
Total Earnings: $44.5 million
Salary/winnings: $14.5 million
 Endorsements: $30 million 

World No. 1 Nadal had a monster 2013 season where he won two Grand Slams (French Open, U.S. Open). The wins and top year-end ranking kicked in bonuses from sponsors in addition to the $14.5 million in prize money he earned between June and June. Nadal’s biggest endorsement partner is Nike where his earnings are heavily tied to his year-end rank. 

   

#10 of 10 World’s Highest-Paid Athletes In 2014 And How They Made Their Money

#10 Matt Ryan Total Earnings: $43.8 million Salary/winnings: $42 million Endorsements: $1.8 million 

Ryan signed a five-year, $103.75 million contract last year with the Falcons that included a $28 million signing bonus and a $12 million option bonus paid in March. The $20.75 million average annual value was the second highest in the NFL behind only Aaron Rodgers at the time of signing (Colin Kaepernick has since surpassed Ryan).