First international match was US-Canada cricket match in 1844. Ancient Olympics began in 776 BCE with Greek city-state competitions. First modern Olympics in 1896 featured 14 countries and 241 athletes
Younger players receive undervaluation due to limited negotiation opportunities. Hitters in their first three seasons are underpaid, while later players are overpaid. Veteran players face competition from younger talent
Total prize money increased to £50 million, up 11.86% from 2023. Champion receives £2.7 million, up 14.89%. Runner-up gets £1.4 million, up 19.15%. First-round losers receive £60,000, up 9.09%. Wheelchair and quad wheelchair events get £1 million for first time
PSG's 2017 Neymar and Mbappe transfers significantly boosted transfer market. Barcelona signed Dembele, Coutinho and Griezmann for €9-figure fees. Atletico Madrid acquired Felix for €126m, Real Madrid brought Hazard for €100m. Premier League clubs signed Rice, Fernandez, Grealish and other players since 2021. Saudi Pro League clubs acquired Ronaldo, Benzema and Neymar in 2023
Kylian Mbappé leads with $180 million contract at age 24. Ruben Dias follows with $80 million at age 26. Erling Haaland and Christian Pulisic earn $40 million each. Gabriel Jesus and João Félix receive $27-25 million