Sports offer the people who play them an escape and, depending on how much talent an individual possesses, it can also rescue them from financial hardship.
If an elite-level athlete can stay healthy and successful the chances are they will be able to earn a respectable living and those who participate in the most popular sports can even become millionaires.
Football, boxing, basketball, American football, golf and tennis are among some of the best games to be involved in, in that regard.
Goal takes a look at the highest-paid sports stars in the world, as well as the footballers who are most lucratively rewarded for their talents.