Gianluigi Buffon

Gianluigi Buffon is widely regarded as the greatest goalkeeper in football history and had one of the longest careers in professional sport, playing at the top level from age 17 to age 45. His transfer from Parma to Juventus in 2001 for $52 million was a world-record fee for a goalkeeper that stood for over 15 years. At Juventus, he earned a peak salary of approximately $10 million per year over a career that spanned 20 seasons with the club.

Buffon's endorsement portfolio included Puma (a lifetime partnership), Head & Shoulders, and various Italian brands. His longevity meant that he was commercially active for nearly three decades, generating endorsement income longer than most athletes' entire careers. He won 10 Serie A titles and the 2006 World Cup, where his performances were considered the best by any goalkeeper in a single tournament.

Post-retirement, Buffon has transitioned to an executive role at Juventus and is involved in Italian football administration. His net worth of $80 million reflects the cumulative earnings of a 28-year career at the highest level -- a duration that amplified every income stream from salary to endorsements to merchandise royalties.