Player Contracts: The Top 8 Deals in Sports History
Contracts are an integral part of professional sports. They dictate the terms under which players compete, earn their livelihoods, and leave a lasting impact on the game. Over the years, we’ve witnessed some truly remarkable deals that have shaped the landscape of sports and pushed financial boundaries to new heights.
In this article, we’ll delve into the top eight player contracts in sports history. These deals not only represent exceptional financial commitments but also demonstrate the immense value these athletes bring to their respective teams and leagues.
1. Mike Trout – Los Angeles Angels (MLB): $426.5 Million over 12 Years
Mike Trout’s 2019 contract extension with the Los Angeles Angels shattered records by becoming the largest deal in baseball history. This landmark agreement reflected both his unparalleled talent and his importance to the franchise. With this contract, Trout solidified his place as one of baseball’s all-time greats.
2. Lionel Messi – Barcelona (Soccer): €555 Million over 4 Years
Lionel Messi’s contract renewal with Barcelona in 2017 was nothing short of astronomical. The Argentine superstar signed a four-year deal worth €555 million ($674 million), making him not only one of soccer’s highest-paid players but also setting a new benchmark for athlete earnings across all sports.
3. Connor McDavid – Edmonton Oilers (NHL): $100 Million over 8 Years
At just 20 years old, Connor McDavid inked an eight-year extension with the Edmonton Oilers in 2017 worth $100 million—the richest deal in NHL history at that time. Regarded as hockey’s next generational talent, McDavid has lived up to expectations since entering the league and continues to be a driving force for Edmonton.
4. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs (NFL): $503 Million over 10 Years
Patrick Mahomes made headlines when he signed the richest contract in NFL history with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020. The deal guarantees him $477 million over ten years, with additional incentives that could push the total value to $503 million. This record-breaking contract solidifies Mahomes as one of football’s brightest stars.
5. Alex Rodriguez – New York Yankees (MLB): $275 Million over 10 Years
In 2007, Alex Rodriguez signed a historic ten-year, $275 million contract extension with the New York Yankees. At that time, it was the largest contract in baseball history and showcased A-Rod’s immense talent and marketability. Despite controversies surrounding his career, there is no denying Rodriguez’s impact both on and off the field.
6. Cristiano Ronaldo – Real Madrid (Soccer): €94 Million over 6 Years
When Cristiano Ronaldo joined Real Madrid from Manchester United in 2009, he signed a six-year deal worth €94 million ($108 million). This agreement elevated him to superstar status and set new standards for player transfers and salaries within soccer.
7. LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers (NBA): $154 Million over 4 Years
LeBron James has been a transformative figure throughout his NBA career both on and off the court. In 2018, he signed a four-year contract worth $154 million with the Los Angeles Lakers—a deal that marked his commitment to revitalizing one of basketball’s most storied franchises.
8. Wayne Gretzky – Los Angeles Kings (NHL): $22.5 Million over 20 Years
During his illustrious career, Wayne Gretzky earned numerous accolades and shattered countless records while playing for several teams. However, it was his unprecedented trade to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 that not only changed hockey but also led to an iconic long-term deal: a personal services contract worth $22.5 million spread out over two decades—an arrangement that extended beyond his playing days.
These eight contracts exemplify the magnitude of financial commitments made by teams and organizations to secure the services of exceptional athletes. They also reflect the immense value these players bring, not just in terms of their on-field performance but also through their impact on ticket sales, merchandise, sponsorships, and overall franchise success.
As sports evolve and athlete salaries continue to rise, we can only anticipate more groundbreaking deals that will reshape the landscape for years to come.