South Africa is renowned for its vibrant sports culture, boasting a diverse array of talented athletes across various disciplines.
In recent times, the sporting landscape in the country has expanded dramatically, propelling some of South Africa’s most prominent stars to the ranks of the world’s highest-earning athletes.
Whether it’s football, cricket, or golf, these exceptional athletes are commanding staggering sums for their extraordinary skills.
Percy Tau
Since joining Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League back in 2018, Percy Tau, the Bafana Bafana international, has experienced a meteoric ascent. His transfer fee and subsequent salary have firmly secured his position as the highest-paid athlete in South Africa, reportedly raking in a staggering R70 million annually.
AB de Villiers
AB de Villiers, widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most illustrious cricketers, embarked on his career in 2004 and has since become one of the most accomplished players in the world.
As a crucial member of the South African team that triumphed in the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2019, he presently stands as one of the highest-earning cricketers globally, pocketing an estimated R60 million each year.
Louis Oosthuizen
Louis Oosthuizen has carved out a prosperous and enduring career, attaining the prestigious title of champion in the 2010 major championship, The Open. As of now, he ranks as the world’s tenth highest-earning professional golfer, accumulating an approximate R47 million annually.
Thabo Sefolosha
Following an extensive career in Europe, Thabo Sefolosha finally made his leap to the NBA in 2006. He currently showcases his talents for the Houston Rockets, amassing an estimated R22 million per year.
These four athletes represent a mere fraction of the exceptional talent that South Africa boasts. They exemplify the cream of the crop among the country’s highest-earning sports stars, serving as a testament to South Africa’s potential for producing world-class athletes.