The Most Expensive Athlete Insurance Policies of All Time
Updated: Jan 29
When I first learned about the world of athlete insurance policies, I was blown away by the sheer scale of the numbers involved. These policies aren’t just for minor injuries—we’re talking millions, even hundreds of millions, to cover some of the most important assets in sports: the athletes’ bodies.
As someone who follows both sports and finance, I find it fascinating how these contracts reflect not just the value of an athlete’s career but also the immense risks involved.
So here are the most expensive ones:
1. Lionel Messi – $900 Million

Photo credit: AFP
The Argentinian football legend’s left foot is insured for an astounding $900 million. As one of the greatest football players in history, Messi’s left foot is responsible for some of the sport’s most iconic moments. FC Barcelona took out this policy during his tenure to safeguard their star player’s most valuable asset.
2. David Beckham – $195 Million

Photo credit: One Thousand Museum
David Beckham’s entire body was insured for $195 million during his peak years. This comprehensive policy reflected not only his football skills but also his immense value as a global brand ambassador, with endorsements and advertisements relying heavily on his image.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo – $144 Million

Photo credit: Student News Agency
Another football superstar, Cristiano Ronaldo, has his legs insured for $144 million. Known for his agility, speed, and precise strikes, Ronaldo’s legs are crucial to his performance on the field. Real Madrid arranged this policy during his time at the club to protect their massive investment in the Portuguese icon.
4. LeBron James – $100 Million

Photo credit: Los Angeles Lakers
Basketball legend LeBron James reportedly has a $100 million insurance policy to protect his athletic prowess. Known for his incredible endurance and skill, this policy ensures his career and endorsements are safeguarded against unforeseen injuries.
5. Tom Brady – $100 Million

Photo credit: Barcex
NFL quarterback Tom Brady’s arm is insured for $100 million. As one of the greatest quarterbacks in history, his throwing arm is indispensable to his success on the field and his team’s performance.
6. Maria Sharapova – $70 Million

Photo credit: Tourism Victoria
Tennis star Maria Sharapova had a $70 million policy covering her powerful tennis body. Her consistent and dominant performances on the court made her a valuable asset to sponsors and tournament organizers alike, justifying this significant coverage.
7. Tiger Woods – $50 Million

Photo credit: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images
Golf legend Tiger Woods insured his swing for $50 million. With a career defined by precision and power, this policy highlights the critical role his swing played in securing his dominance in the sport.
8. Fernando Alonso – $50 Million

Photo credit: NurPhoto/Getty Images
Formula 1 driver Fernando Alonso’s thumbs are insured for $50 million. In motorsport, a driver’s ability to grip the wheel and control the car is paramount, making this an unusual but vital insurance policy.
9. Usain Bolt – $10 Million

Photo credit: Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil
Dubbed the fastest man alive, Usain Bolt’s legs were insured for $10 million. While this figure might seem low compared to other athletes on this list, it underscores the importance of his legs to his record-breaking career in track and field.
Why Do Athletes Insure Their Bodies?
Athletes’ careers depend entirely on their physical abilities, which makes them vulnerable to career-ending injuries. Insurance policies act as a safety net, ensuring they don’t suffer catastrophic financial losses if their abilities are compromised. Beyond that, clubs, sponsors, and agents also have vested interests in safeguarding their investments, leading to these eye-watering insurance policies.
In a world where a single injury can end a multimillion-dollar career, these policies provide peace of mind and financial security. Whether it’s Messi’s left foot or Alonso’s thumbs, these cases highlight the incredible value—and vulnerability—of elite athletes.