We've seen some true superstars in the world of sport over the years - names like Pele, Muhammad Ali and Usain Bolt all spring to mind. However, none of those three names mentioned make our list today - we'll be looking at the ten highest-paid athletes in history, when their career earnings are adjusted for inflation.
The career earnings of each athlete have been adjusted for inflation in the interest of fairness. For example, on paper, Floyd Mayweather Jr. earned a lot more than Jack Nicklaus - however, their overall earnings look very different when inflation is taken into account.

1. 10. Floyd Mayweather Jr.
Career earnings (adjusted for inflation): £1.15 billion | Getty Images

2. 9. Roger Federer
Career earnings (adjusted for inflation): £1.16 billion Photo: Clive Brunskill

3. 8. David Beckham
Career earnings (adjusted for inflation): £1.16 billion Photo: Claudio Villa

4. 7. Lionel Messi
Career earnings (adjusted for inflation): £1.3 billion Photo: CHRIS ARJOON/AFP via Getty Images