Meet the Top-Earning Athletes Who Dominated 1950-1964

Ever wonder which athlete was making waves (and serious cash) when you were born? From boxing champions to baseball icons, each year had its big earner, setting records both on the field and in their bank accounts. Let’s go back in time to meet the sports stars who turned skill into wealth, year by year!

1950

In 1950, Joe DiMaggio was baseball’s golden boy, pulling in $100,000 a year—big money for the era! The Yankees’ center fielder charmed fans with his skills and even more with his brief marriage to Marilyn Monroe. Between fame, fortune, and a .325 career batting average, DiMaggio was a sports and pop culture phenomenon​.​

1951

Rocky Marciano wasn’t just undefeated in the ring; he was winning financially too! In 1951, the heavyweight boxing champion netted about $1.7 million with his title fights. Fans loved his relentless style, and opponents feared it. By staying on top in the ring, Rocky also kept his earnings rolling in​.

1952

In hockey, Gordie Howe was the man. With his all-around skill and $25,000 annual salary (plus endorsements), he became the highest-paid hockey player in 1952. Known as “Mr. Hockey,” Howe’s love for the game and fierce play made him a hero, and his earnings showed how valuable he was to the sport​.

1953

Stan Musial, known as “Stan the Man,” was not just beloved in St. Louis—he was making a great living too! In 1953, his talent in the field and popularity off it earned him top dollar. Fans packed the stands to watch his swing, which was as reliable as his paycheck.​​

1954

Willie Mays was baseball’s top earner in 1954, thanks to his $75,000 salary with the New York Giants. He was known for his incredible catches and powerful bat that made him capture his fans’ hearts—and sponsors’ attention. His famous “The Catch” made headlines and sealed his place as baseball’s biggest financial hitter that year​.

1955

In 1955, Ted Williams of the Red Sox led the earnings pack, raking in about $85,000. With a swing that was pure magic, Williams was always in demand. Though quiet in interviews, he made plenty of noise on the field, earning every dollar with his batting precision​.

1956

Yogi Berra, the Yankees’ charismatic catcher, was at the top in 1956. With a $65,000 paycheck and a personality as big as his talent, Yogi connected with fans like few could. Known for his quirky sayings and Yoo-hoo chocolate drink endorsements, Berra turned his charm into some serious change​.

1957

Golf was changing in 1957, with Arnold Palmer leading the way. Palmer’s style and down-to-earth appeal made him popular with fans, while his success on the greens brought in endorsement money. “Arnie’s Army” adored him, and Palmer’s winnings made him one of the year’s top athletes​.

1958

The iconic “two-minute drills” of Johnny Unitas became the stuff of legend—and big contracts​. He was redefining the quarterback role in 1958, and his $50,000 salary showed it. Unitas, famous for his cool head and precision passes, led the Baltimore Colts and became the NFL’s top earner. 

1959

Jackie Robinson wasn’t just a trailblazer; by 1959, he was a top earner, too. After integrating Major League Baseball, Robinson’s impact and endorsements put him among the wealthiest athletes. His grace under pressure didn’t just make history; it paid off, as he broke barriers and built a lasting legacy​.

1960

Wilma Rudolph sprinted to fame in 1960 with three Olympic gold medals, becoming an international star. Known for her speed and resilience, Rudolph inspired millions, and her newfound endorsements helped her make financial strides, showing the world that women could shine—and earn big—in sports​.

1961

In 1961, Wilt Chamberlain was the NBA’s unstoppable force in both scoring and salary. At 7-foot-1, his $30,000 contract was unheard of, setting him apart as a financial trailblazer. Wilt’s dynamic presence and record-breaking skills secured his place as one of basketball’s early superstars.

1962

In 1962, Pele was the king of soccer, bringing global attention to the sport and raking in the income to match. With his phenomenal footwork and infectious charisma, Pele became a beloved figure worldwide, and his endorsements added a financial kick, which made him one of the world’s wealthiest athletes​.

1963

Gary Player, known for his intense workouts and competitive drive, led golf earnings in 1963. The South African “Black Knight” captured fans worldwide and made big money in the process. With global wins and a reputation for focus and flair, Gary Player became golf’s financial heavyweight that year.​

1964

Muhammad Ali was the biggest name in boxing—and sports—in 1964. His wit, charm, and fights against top opponents earned him the year’s highest payouts. Ali’s mix of talent and personality made him a cultural icon, not just a boxer, and his earnings reflected his impact inside and outside the ring.