Social media platforms have become powerful tools for athletes to engage with fans, build their personal brands, and generate significant income. Instagram, in particular, stands out as a platform where top US sports stars not only share glimpses of their lives but also earn substantial amounts through sponsored posts and endorsements.
This article delves into the earnings and influence of the highest-earning US sports stars on Instagram, highlighting their follower count, estimated earnings per post, and what makes their profiles stand out.
Handle: @kingjames
Followers: 159.9M
Estimated Earnings per post: $1.37M - $1.85M
Average Likes: 774k
LeBron James is an NBA superstar known for his tenure with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat, and Los Angeles Lakers.
Often regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, LeBron uses his Instagram to share his professional achievements, family moments, and philanthropic activities. He has collaborated with major brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, and Beats by Dre, leveraging his vast influence to endorse products ranging from sportswear to beverages.
Topping the list by a significant margin, LeBron's estimated earnings per post reach up to $1.85 million, highlighting his unparalleled marketability and influence on social media. One of his most notable sponsorship deals is his lifetime contract with Nike, worth an estimated $1 billion.
Handle: @stephencurry30
Followers: 56.38M
Estimated Earnings per post: $484k - $654k
Average Likes: 468k
Steph Curry is an NBA player for the Golden State Warriors, renowned for revolutionizing the game with his exceptional three-point shooting.
His posts blend basketball action, heartwarming family moments, and his off-court ventures. Recently, Curry signed a new long-term extension with Under Armour, which has the potential to be a lifetime deal. This agreement solidifies Curry's status as a key figure in the sportswear industry, with Under Armour continuing to develop his signature line of shoes and apparel.
Curry’s partnerships with brands like Sony and JPMorgan Chase further showcase his diverse appeal, from athletic gear to tech and financial services.
Handle: @floydmayweather
Followers: 29.79M
Estimated Earnings per post: $255k - $345k
Average Likes: 155k
Floyd Mayweather Jr., the undefeated boxing legend, flaunts his luxurious lifestyle on Instagram. Followers get a glimpse of his lavish world, featuring everything from exotic cars to high-end fashion.
Known for his extravagant persona, Mayweather has sealed deals with brands like Hublot, Burger King, and FanDuel, turning his flashy image into a lucrative endorsement portfolio.
Handle: @russwest44
Followers: 23.13M
Estimated Earnings per post: $199k - $268k
Average Likes: 178k
Russel Westbrook is an NBA player known for his explosive athleticism and tenacity on the court.
Currently playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, his Instagram features his basketball highlights, personal style, and family moments.
Westbrook has worked with brands such as Jordan Brand, PepsiCo, and True Religion, highlighting his unique fashion sense and competitive spirit.
Handle: @kyrieirving
Followers: 19.86M
Estimated Earnings per post: $173k - $234k
Average Likes: 463k
Kyrie Irving is an NBA player known for his exceptional ball-handling skills and scoring ability. He has played for teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and Brooklyn Nets, and currently plays for the Dallas Mavericks.
Irving's Instagram is a mix of basketball highlights, personal philosophies, and cultural interests. He has collaborated with brands like Nike, Pepsi, and Skullcandy, endorsing products that align with his dynamic personality.
Handle: @obj
Followers: 17.71M
Estimated Earnings per post: $154k - $208k
Average Likes: 343k
Odell Beckham Jr. is an NFL wide receiver known for his spectacular one-handed catches and charismatic persona.
Currently playing for the Baltimore Ravens, Beckham’s feed showcases his spectacular on-field performances, stylish outfits, and personal milestones. His partnerships with Nike, Head & Shoulders, and EA Sports highlight his appeal across both sports and lifestyle brands.
Handle: @rondarousey
Followers: 17.59M
Estimated Earnings per post: $150k - $203k
Average Likes: 57.9k
Ronda Rousey is a former UFC champion and WWE star known for her fierce fighting style and trailblazing presence in women's sports.
Her Instagram includes training videos, personal milestones, and glimpses into her adventurous life. Rousey has collaborated with brands like Reebok, Monster Energy, and Carl's Jr., often incorporating these partnerships into her content.
Handle: @serenawilliams
Followers: 17.27M
Estimated Earnings per post: $148k - $200k
Average Likes: 84.8k
Serena Williams is one of the greatest tennis players of all time, with numerous Grand Slam titles to her name. Her Instagram features her tennis achievements, fashion endeavors, and moments with her family.
Williams has collaborated with brands like Nike, Wilson, and Gatorade, endorsing products that reflect her status as a sports icon and entrepreneur.
Handle: @giannis_an34
Followers: 16.25M
Estimated Earnings per post: $140k - $190k
Average Likes: 197k
Giannis Antetokounmpo, known as the "Greek Freak," is an NBA player for the Milwaukee Bucks celebrated for his versatility and athleticism.
His Instagram highlights his basketball journey, family, and cultural roots. Antetokounmpo has partnered with brands like 2K Sports, and JBL, promoting products that align with his hardworking and humble image.
Handle: @tombrady
Followers: 14.81M
Estimated Earnings per post: $129k - $174k
Average Likes: 251k
Tom Brady is a legendary NFL quarterback with multiple Super Bowl wins, known for his precision and leadership on the field.
His Instagram offers insights into his training regimen, family life, and business ventures. Brady has collaborated with brands like Under Armour, Aston Martin, and NoBull, showcasing his commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Handle: @easymoneysniper
Followers: 13.43M
Estimated Earnings per post: $120k - $162k
Average Likes: 659k
Kevin Durant is an NBA star known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court. He has played for teams like the Golden State Warriors and Brooklyn Nets.
Durant's Instagram features his basketball career, personal insights, and business ventures. He has partnered with brands such as Google and Alaska Airlines, promoting a range of products and services through his posts.
Handle: @jharden13
Followers: 12.04M
Estimated Earnings per post: $103k - $140k
Average Likes: 63k
James Harden is an NBA player known for his prolific scoring and distinctive beard. Currently playing for the LA Clippers, Harden uses Instagram to share his on-court highlights, fashion sense, and personal life.
He has collaborated with brands like Adidas, BodyArmor, and Beats by Dre, endorsing products that align with his dynamic personality and lifestyle.
Handle: @cp3
Followers: 11.82M
Estimated Earnings per post: $101k - $136k
Average Likes: 1.69k
Chris Paul, also known as CP3, is an NBA player renowned for his exceptional playmaking and leadership skills. He has played for teams like the New Orleans Hornets and Los Angeles Clippers, and currently plays for the Golden State Warriors.
Paul's Instagram showcases his basketball achievements, philanthropic efforts, and family life. He has partnered with brands such as State Farm and Panini America, promoting a range of products and services through his posts.
Handle: @alexmorgan13
Followers: 10.07M
Estimated Earnings per post: $86.4k - $117k
Average Likes: 90k
Alex Morgan is a professional soccer player and Olympic gold medalist known for her striking ability and leadership on the field.
She uses Instagram to share her soccer highlights, fitness routines, and personal moments. Morgan has collaborated with brands like Nike, Coca-Cola, and McDonald's, endorsing products that reflect her active lifestyle and sports career.
Handle: @simonebiles
Followers: 7.12M
Estimated Earnings per post: $61.7k - $83.5k
Average Likes: 143k
Simone Biles is a world-renowned gymnast with numerous Olympic and World Championship medals to her name.
Her Instagram features her gymnastics routines, personal achievements, and moments with family and friends. Biles has partnered with brands such as Athleta, Visa, and Uber Eats, promoting products that align with her athletic excellence and personal brand.
Handle: @tigerwoods
Followers: 3.5M
Estimated Earnings per post: $30.4k - $41.1k
Average Likes: 73.6k
Tiger Woods is a legendary golfer with multiple major championships and a storied career.
His Instagram showcases his golfing achievements, personal life, and business ventures. Woods has collaborated with brands like Nike, Bridgestone, and Monster Energy, endorsing products that reflect his iconic status in the world of golf.
Handle: @paigevanzant
Followers: 3.19M
Estimated Earnings per post: $27.2k - $36.8k
Average Likes: 7.38k
Paige VanZant is a mixed martial artist and former UFC fighter known for her striking skills and charisma.
Her Instagram features her training routines, personal life, and various ventures. VanZant has partnered with brands like Reebok, Ringside, and BKFC, promoting products that align with her fighting career and active lifestyle.
Handle: @hollyholm
Followers: 2.57M
Estimated Earnings per post: $22k - $29.7k
Average Likes: 13.8k
Holly Holm is a professional boxer and mixed martial artist known for her striking ability and knockout power.
Her Instagram includes training videos, fight highlights, and personal moments.
Holm has collaborated with brands like Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, CytoSport, and Blue Buffalo, endorsing products that reflect her athletic and healthy lifestyle.
Handle: @mieshatate
Followers: 2.09M
Estimated Earnings per post: $17.8k - $24k
Average Likes: 4.82k
Miesha Tate is a former UFC champion and mixed martial artist known for her grappling skills and resilience.
Her Instagram showcases her training routines, personal milestones, and various ventures. Tate has partnered with brands like Reebok, ONNIT, and Layrite, promoting products that align with her fighting career and fitness lifestyle.
Handle: @venuswilliams
Followers: 2.03M
Estimated Earnings: $17.4k - $23.6k
Average Likes: 21.3k
Venus Williams is a tennis legend with multiple Grand Slam titles and a pioneering presence in women's sports.
Her Instagram features her tennis achievements, fashion endeavors, and personal moments. Williams has collaborated with brands like Wilson, Ralph Lauren, and Tide, endorsing products that reflect her elegance and excellence both on and off the court.
The influence of US sports stars on Instagram is immense, with many athletes earning significant sums from their posts. From LeBron James' dominance to Serena Williams' multifaceted presence, these athletes leverage their fame and reach to engage with millions of followers worldwide.
Their ability to connect with fans and monetize their influence highlights the power of social media in the modern sports landscape. For those interested in taking their fandom to the next level, explore our recommended sportsbooks in New York for the top betting options on your favorite athletes.
To compile this list of top-earning US sports stars on Instagram, we started by referencing Statista's list of leading athletes on Instagram worldwide, which provides a comprehensive overview of the most-followed sports figures globally. From this global list, we filtered down to athletes who are based in the United States, ensuring our focus remained on US sports stars.
For the updated number of followers and to estimate earnings per Instagram post, we used InBeat's collaboration cost calculator. This tool uses a formula based on several factors, including the total number of Instagram followers, the engagement rate (average level of interaction such as likes and comments per post), the average number of likes each post receives, and the type of content shared.
