Are most professional athletes overpaid?
Sports over lives
There are many people like doctors who deserve the same amount of money as a pro football or baseball layer earns. They save lives everyday and even help mothers have their baby's! They don't earn anything even close to what a basketball player earns in a month. If anyone knows an athlete who can perform surgery please let me know to prove me wrong, but for know I fully believe that the millions of dollars that athletes earn a month should be going to something worthwhile like doctors and militarymen and not people who throws balls around for a living.
Posted by: AnonymousThat money can go for better uses
Just look at it like this. WOULD YOU RATHER eat or WOULD YOU RATHER look at someone run to first base? With that kid of money we can help the homeless, cancer, our country's economy, we can make more jobs for people that need it. Instead of just looking at someone toss a ball just for fun. I'm not saying they shouldn't get paid, but not millions of dollars. There are Way more important things but some of you wouldn't understand. I'd like to see you, go into the army and die and face the fact that you didn't even make half of what professional athletes make. I'd like to watch you run around BARE FEET because you can't afford clothing or STARVE because you can't buy food. I'd like to see you for from cancer because you couldn't afford treatments.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's obvious that athletes are overpaid
Let's just take an example. We'll say our fictional friend Bob is a football player. Let's say our other nonexistent friend, Matt, is a teacher. Matt works eight hours a day, five days a week, ten months out of the year. Bob, as a football player, works three hours a day, one-three days a week, seven months a year. Matt teaches kids how to speak. Bob plays a game for other people's enjoyment. When you take how beneficial Matt is and how much more he works than Bob, and the innecessity of Bob's job, Matt should earn MUCH more than Bob. It's sad we don't work in a work : gain society because if we did these sort of shortcomings wouldn't happen. Matt gets paid 40,000 dollars a year. Bob get's paid 40,000,000 dollars a year. Its completely unproportional and should be fixed IMMEDIATELY.
Posted by: AnjouThey get so much money for making mistakes.
All professional athletes make mistakes, so why pay them so much? They get paid like they are perfect all the time, but realistically they are not even close. For example Alex Rodriguez (A-Rod), who plays for the Yankees didn't get hits last year so they benched him during games. Per at bat he gets on average of $200,000. So basically he gets $200,000 to strikeout.
Posted by: AnonymousThey don't contribute to society.
People like teachers deserve more money than athletes because they contribute to our society. Wouldn't it be better to spend the excess money on education, or in the medical field? It makes much more sense to invest our money in helping the community and saving peoples lives than it does for us to invest it in entertainment. How much does that really help?
Posted by: AnonymousThey're playing a GAME.Yes. A GAME.
Sports aren't exactly the most important thing in the world, let alone an important job. Why is it that while athletes get payed millions a year, a starting N.Y.P.D police officer can get payed 1% of that amount in a year? And why do they even get payed? I don't get payed to play a game of chess with someone, or to sit down and play a video game, or to play a card game or board game. Some people will say they "work hard", but really. What do you think that police officer is doing? Sitting around and playing a video game all day? And when people say they can get injured and end their careers, what do you think happens if that said cop is doing a drug bust and gets shot? Could that end their career? YES. Will it? Possibly. Will a broken leg or busted kneecap end an athlete's career? Almost certainly. And why is it that we pay people millions when their career could end in a single accident or bad game?
Posted by: insertusernamehereYes there are people in our country who actually have jobs to help our country athletes just sit and play a kids game.
I think if anyone should be paid more it should be teachers and scientists. If not them then it should be people in the army. Athletes are just hear for entertainment they take money away from the society. Players are now asking for more money . Why do you need all that money they don't even spend it all? These athletes are making bad examples to little kids by saying inapropriate language. These athletes are taking away jobs from are country. The athletes are making it so kids say I want to be a pro athlete when I grow up less than 20% of athletes actually make it pro in football and Soccer.
Posted by: srashYes, even though nothing will change
It is one thing to become a professional athlete, but another to be an overpaid athlete and get everything handed to you. At one time professional sports was just a past time, no money involved, or at least not as much as these days. Even in the 50's and 60's most athletes still had to get jobs to help pay the bills but they still loved the game weather as a hockey player, baseball player, football etc... I can understand being paid good money, but now these days it seems like the money they are getting is just not enough. What about the good old days where the games were fun to watch, the time of where the real men and women athletes were. I'm not saying that it is the source to all of the problems, because a lot of the problems stem from the media and sponsorship making money, causing athletes to demand their share. Money is a dangerous necessity that will ruin more lives than help. So many unfortunate people who never had the opportunities and the money to become an athlete because living in poor family, So many talented kids who are better than most kids who make it into the pros but don't have the money and resources. which a bet a lot of those kids are or will be homeless because there only gift and hope was being an athlete. Also Athletic Scholarship fund is a complete joke, Scandal, whateve you want to call it, Most colleges or universities reward popular Celebrities, or rich arrogate students who don't even need the money, while unfortunate families who can barley make ends meet, get refused because they are considered a nobody. Its happening all the time. But you wont see any change because we live in a corporate world full of ignorant, selfish, greedy a$$hole people who choose how Professional Sports runs. Men in suits, just to go watch a Hockey, football etc.. game. All the fans are to them is puppets. We people spend hundreds of dollars just to go see our favorite team win a game, even if they win, nothing changes, still go home back to your miserable life in most cases, while all the athletes win or loose, they still get to party, go do whatever, buy flashy sports cars, Mansions, or big houses and attract all the money hustling $luts who some succeed in and get married for the money. While the rest of us are worried about losing our homes because of the economy. Its a sick world, and eventually people are gonna get fed up.
I don't care what anyone has to say about my comment, because everyone is entitled to their own opinion. But the truth is a really harsh reality that everyones gotta live with. The Rich get Richer and Poorer Stay poor.Posted by: AnonymousWhy should athletes benefit more than hard work?
There is no good reason why they should benefit less then hard work. The only thing athletes do is to entertain us. It's not fair that people who work so hard each day should get paid less, people just asking for a bit more money in their pocket to provide more to their family and for their community. Thank you for reading.
Posted by: AnonymousYes
They are paid too much money that we could be spending or using on other things that are important in this country. They get paid more than the president, for crying out loud, and I think that is terrible because they just play a game and the president runs this country.
Posted by: unicorcieslover203Athletes are Undeserving of their Fortunes
Watch them...
Get on their hands and knees like monkeys.
Jump on top of each other.
Is that not an accurate description of football?
I think that athletes should get paid about $100,000.
Athletics provides entertainment for civilization; academics ensures progress.
Athletics are the worst thing that humanity has ever encountered.
By the way, I am in middle school.Posted by: AnonymousToo much
Of course Each basket Labron James makes him the average teachers yearly salary. If they would donate to the lower population they would help us out plenty. There is enough money that professionals athletes have that in a couple years we could pay off the 11 trillion debt. I do 110% that professional athletes should get paid less
Posted by: AnonymousWhere would you be?
Where would you be without sports? Bored on the weekends. Where would you be with out farmers? Naked and hungry. Where would you be without doctors? Dead or incredibly sick. Combined, a farmer and doctor would make half as much as a professional athlete. Don't get me wrong I love athletics. I participate in them and love sitting down and watching a good ol' game of football, but when I work my butt off to feed our country and I get paid less than a man who goes out and parties 3 days of the week and complains because they're making "barely enough" to get by. Try living the life of a farmer actually make a difference I could live without pro sports, but none of you would be here without a farmer.
Posted by: AnonymousSoldiers more important
Soldiers returning to the states have little or no money so I think that we should take the money away from the professional athletes and put it towards the economy and the nation defense fund. I understand that the "pros" have to deal with injuries but nothing even close to PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. They don't risk their lives for our country therefor I believe they don't deserve that sum of money
Posted by: will8799They are overpaid
Athletes get paid way too much, and do nothing with it. They get too much money and do foolish things with it, when they could instead help homeless people on the road. They don't do anything with the money. They can support people and support their families, and have a space in there heart to help. Get out of your bed and help people. When you're finished with practice, donate.
Posted by: AnonymousThey don't always hit the ball
They sometimes miss the ball or they throw an interception. Nobody's perfect but no matter what they do bad or their mistakes they still get paid they some amount with regular raises. Doctors and nurses can get less money if they mess up. The other sad thing is doctors get paid less than athletes but doctors save lives! Athletes get paid TOO MUCH!!!
Posted by: AnonymousIs Entertainment our #1 priority
Is entertainment our #1 priority? Pro athletes have a higher salary than a police officer, a teacher,and an army man or woman combined. That is wrong. A police officer, teacher, and an army man or woman are all heroes. They give their lives to give service to others. A pro athlete runs around a court or field or whatever and makes millions of dollars...
Posted by: pennypopYou're kidding right?
I feel that as a High School student that one of my favorite things in the world is watching professional sports. BUT I am learning much more from my teachers in school than MJ ever taught me. Why do my teachers make so much less then? It just doesn't make any sense. Athletes are entertainers, getting paid millions to play the sports they love. Whereas teachers are contributing to society making the next generation as amazing as possible but get paid but a tiny fraction in their lifetime of what men who throw balls in hoops make in a year.
Posted by: Anonymousyes they are.
They are so overpaid its ridiculous. If you are a single man, and you make $100,000 a year, you are living JUST FINE. Now, a MINIMUM entry level contract for the NHL is $400,000. Think about that for a second that rookie can provide money for 4 single men to live well. Doctors save lives and don't make half of what tom Brady does.
Posted by: AnonymousSports shouldn't determine salary.
Owners are not able to control their spending. They spend too much on players' salaries, and not enough on operating costs, and do not make enough profit. For example, Phoenix. They are in serious financial crisis. The League had to take over this team, because the owner did not how to use his money properly and caused Phoenix not to make enough profit. I understand that players are talented, and that is what their salary is based on, but being paid millions of dollars for that is absurd. However, I do believe that sports that require more physical output (football, hockey, boxing, soccer etc) should give those athletes a higher salary, because they are more prone to severe injuries. Acquiring severe injuries can cut an athlete's career short (Todd Bertuzzi and Steve Moore Incident.)
Posted by: AnonymousThey don't contribute to society.
People like teachers deserve more money than athletes because they contribute to our society. Wouldn't it be better to spend the excess money on education, or in the medical field? It makes much more sense to invest our money in helping the community and saving peoples lives than it does for us to invest it in entertainment. How much does that really help?
Posted by: AnonymousThey do get paid so much for what they really do, but that is because millions of people are willing to watch them.
They do get paid so much for what they really do, but that is because millions of people are willing to watch them. Because it is a prfitable buisness they get paid for the amount of people they bring in. If we as a society actually cared for them then we should value the electrical engineers and charity workers instead of football players and reality TV show stars.
Posted by: THEPRO56I agree that most professional athletes are overpaid, because they do not serve a purpose in society beyond entertainment.
It is sad to look at our society's values through the ways we compensate professions. For example, professional athletes are paid huge salaries by the teams they play for, in addition to lucrative sponsorship deals from various corporations, for what essentially boils down to entertainment. They may occasionally become role models for young people, but they also demonstrate a level of success which is unattainable to the average person. On the other hand, the people who have direct contact with our children and on a daily basis serve as role models and occasionally even as "parent-substitutes" make less than even your average business professional. I'm speaking, of course, about teachers. They truly influence the future of our society, and they make in a year less than a professional athlete makes in a month.
Posted by: Shim2freeI agree that most professional athletes are overpaid because they are not contributing that much to society.
What do professional athletes give to society? Really it is just entertainment a few times a week. Also, there are professional athletes such as Ray Louis who have murdered people and we are paying them millions of dollars. What signal does this send to children? As a society, we need to support education and jobs that contribute to society rather then paying for entertainment and the trouble that many athletes get into.
Posted by: N4udGingerthey are and are not payed to much
Athletes get a contract that are the millions but everyday they risk there career to play the sport that they like. players are getting a lot of money but the ticket buyers and the sponsors are only boosting what they are getting payed so technically the general population is deciding whether or not to pay the players more or less so if the general population wants to spend money on tickets and sport related items are just boosting the amount of money spent on players get.
Posted by: whats-my-nameAthletes are paid too much.
Teachers, police officers, and fire fighters are all things we need in our community but are only making less than 1% of what athletes are. Sports are not important to our society as are the teachers, fire fighters, and police officers. I get the fact that they should paid for the game they play but not as much as they are. The little kids see these athletes and think why should I go to school if I can become an athlete and earn a lot more money than if I went to school. We are setting bad examples for the little kids by putting this kind of unfairness in the world. Just think about the work that the fire fighters do. they go in to burning houses and risk their lives to save someone else. But all the athletes have to do is go play a game and then they earn millions of dollars. I think they shouldn't be paid as much as they are being paid.
Posted by: Gurthey don't know skill.
people say that athletes are paid for skill, however fire fighters, police officers, and many more people have REMARKABLE skill, and their payment is minimal compared to athletes. it takes a a very brave person to run into a burning building, and know that they might not make it out alive. some firefighters have lost their own homes to raging fires, and only had time to look at their homes before they ran off to save someone else's. some people go into the military just so they can get a scholarship to college. what if they while they are there, one bullet finds its mark. they would have given up their life so they can go to college. if some one can hit a ball well enough, then they can go to college scott-free. they don't have to risk their lives to do so.
Posted by: AnonymousThey get paid too much for playing games.
Athletes get paid millions of dollars for playing a game that little kids play for fun. Meanwhile, police officers, firefighters, and doctors are getting paid less than $200,000 for saving lives. Personally, I believe people who work so hard everyday to provide for themselves and/or their family should get paid more and athletes should get paid less. Athletes play games, doctors save lives. It's as simple as that. How is it fair that an average person works so hard for so little while an athlete gets paid a million dollars for playing a game?
Posted by: AngelofSorrowYes, professional athletes are overpaid.
Professional athletes are overpaid. All they do is play a game. Sure, they are really good at it but all they do it for is entertainment. They should not get paid so much just for playing a sport on TV. Modern day people are risking there lives, helping our community, doing things that we actually need rather than just a sport. Teachers, firemen, and policemen are actually helping our community by helping or protecting others. And how much do they get paid? Some get paid less then one percent of pro athletes. It is extremely ridiculous because, well, what do athletes really do that is so important? All they do is play a game. I don't get why they get paid so much. While others out there are risking their life all they have to worry about is breaking a leg or having something messed up on their body. That happens to everyday people, but when it happens to modern day people no one really cares. When it's a athlete everyone gets worried. They get way over paid for just playing a game.
Posted by: AnonymousYes
That being said there should be no regulation preventing them from being paid so much. They get money from their fans and so there is a lot of money in it.
Posted by: BennyWIt's just a talent
Many people have talents in different fields. Someone may have a talent in mathematics or medicine but they are not given half as much as athletes. Just because they are in the public eye and entertain them. The same level of appreciation and earnings should be given to both people as they are high achievers.
Posted by: AnonymousThey are paid way too much
The average NFL player earns more than the US president. While police officers are risking their lives and making what? $20,000-$40,000 a year. Kids who think they can get rich playing spots might not work hard in school either. And if athletes weren't paid so much money, the tickets to games would be so much cheaper. But no. People would rather watch a player swing, run, catch, and slide around a field than they would want to have fairness in the economy.
Posted by: AnonymousOver paid. And the money should go to more relevant and important things.
People don't like doing something that requires a lot of work (majority of the time). So instead we spend money to watch something we can't do or be. Would I support it if I wasn't subjected to so much information? Yes I think I would, but knowing about where our tax dollars go (BEING LITERAL) I feel very pissed off knowing it goes to useless crap like football or baseball. But. They are things people do to blow off steam, these are also stress relievers for people. So my vote swings much to "I'm against this" but I also can agree that it's used for a relief... I hope people understand what I mean by that.
Posted by: AnonymousOverpaid athletes and actors
Both athletes and actors are overpaid. Why? They sacrifice as much pain and suffer as any other full-time worker does. The difference is just the publicity and the audience. We pay to see films and footballmatches. We pay them - the filmmaking company loads of money wich is also going to the actors, and through them getting rich.
Posted by: AnonymousPro Athletes ARE Overpaid!
Are these athletes in question earning more than most hard-working citizens in the U.S.? Could the money that they are being paid go to better uses? Are there people in the world that deserve the money more than them? The answer to all these questions is yes. Here's a fact for you, most people in the military, who defend our country 24/7, get paid less than minimum wage, which is not very much. The people that deserve this money more are people in the military, factories, and other people whose jobs are necessary for the world to "go 'round". Athletics may be important for people to keep fit but it is not needed for entertainment. All-in-all, pro athletes are overpaid and their jobs are unnecessary.
Posted by: AnonymousWould they still play for less money if the choice was to play or NOT play? Hmmm, yep.
How many times to athletes delay their retirement? It's not because they want to make more money but simply because they have a love for the game. They demand the money because they can, it's part of the game and always will be. This is what happens when you throw in agents for each player. Not only does the player benefit off of the higher contract but you better believe that agent is cashing in also. I guarantee if you told multiple players they have to take a %5 (or however much) cut in their salary this year or decided to NOT play, they would still play. Look at the Florida Marlins this year, they have one of the lowest, if not lowest, salary caps and they have 26 wins. More than the Yankees at the moment. Meanwhile, CC Sabathia is getting 24 million is a measly 4-3. I understand the whole system of revenue, ticket sales, etc, but come on.... It's obvious to see their overpaid.
Posted by: AnonymousIn my opinion
America's focus point is more on entertainment. That's why athletes and entertainers are paid so much. Yes doctors and lawyers are highly paid but they have more of a contribute to society than sports or movies. Just because this team is good on the field doesn't mean they should just be cashing in all the money just for a block or interception. A regular athlete is paid $750,000 in their first year. Most of the time, they'll be sitting on the bench not playing. Then just so they sign with the team, they're givin a minimum of $1 m. We're just throwing away money. I'm not saying this is the main factor but a contributing factor of america's debt. at least knock down the price just a little to help with education and the economy and giving back to run down cities.
Posted by: AnonymousThere much, much more difficult jobs out there.
The children in the world think that sports is the best way out. The jobs out there that require the highest degrees pay no where near the same as a professional athlete. Many athletes make no less than the millions in dollars, even in their rookie years. Also, some athletes in the 1998-99 NBA lockout whined about having so little money. Plus, if an athlete gets injured, that injury has the potential to knock the athlete out of their career.
Posted by: TuckerYes there should be caps
Athletes contribute little to the improvement of modern society. They are merely entertainers on par with the gladiators in ancient Rome. The gladiators were not paid, but were in fact owned as slaves. Modern athletes are paid an exorbitant wage while real workers are paid very small amounts by comparison.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's not a matter of how hard they work.
They are paid as much as they are because of how significant the sports industry is in America significance does not equal benefit. "If you don't like it, stop watching the game?" We do not hate it we simply think they are overpaid. "These people work their butts off to make sure they stay in top condition so they can play or sing the best they can. They work more than 40 hours a week" As the rest of us do. "Think if it was you. Might you be glad to except that kind of check?" No. I would be shameless if I did. "Perhaps you could do good with it?" Yeah I hope they did too. "The sports we all love. They would have to play the sport we all love even better." I would love to see the hunger games for real. I'd better collect billions of dollars then. "These athletes train all year long, on top of playing in their regular season competition." So do marines and terrain infantry.
Posted by: AnonymousSpectator Sport
Yes, they are ridiculously overpaid, and they always will be until people stop paying $100+ for a plastic seat for 3 hours. Nobody has the right to complain unless you truly boycott the system, including not turning on any professional sport on your TV. The majority of the funding comes from their sponsors and commercials. If people stopped watching, then they wouldn't make nearly as much. I used to love football but it just makes me sick to watch and support a bunch of people who are financially lightyears ahead of me, a hardworking, contributing citizen, because they play a fun sport. It's the spectator's fault why they are so spoiled. For those who care, just boycott it all and pretend pro sports don't exist. If enough people did, then eventually they wouldnt exist.
Posted by: AnonymousHow are they not?
Like someone said below, you have teachers, military personnel, & many other jobs out here that get paid nothing while you have SO many athletes that get paid too much. Then half the time they complain it is not enough. If it wasn't for these teachers helping the students get through school then most of these guys would not be where they are today. Also for those that take up for athletes saying they have a lot to deal with, they chose that life. That is what they wanted & if they didn't then they should have never got into to begin with.
Posted by: AnonymousDefinitely
They are overpaid compared to people higher up in society that save lives or that perhaps keep the country safe, talent and fame isn't everything you know. I mean everyday in life someones life gets saved by someone more important than someone kicking, throwing, or catching a ball. So, wow, they put the word pro in front of their profession, a lot that does. I mean would it help if they put the word pro in front of doctor? No, it wouldn't like I said, fame and talent isn't everything.
Posted by: DizzyBDthey are getting too much money
The professional athletes we see every day on T.V. are getting way too high of an income. I realize they have put tons of work into their sport, but people in the military have as well. The people overseas fighting are way more beneficial to our country as a whole as well. Use that money on things we really truly need.
Posted by: AnonymousPaid for messing up
The purpose for hiring them is to win games. When they mess up, for example, drop a pass, miss a shot, lose the ball, only hit the ball 3 out of 10 times, etc., they are failing at what they are supposed to do. In any other profession if someone were to mess up or fail at their task that often, they would not be doing their job for very long. With the people who say that athletes make their own money and it is not ours this is true, but think of this: Do they deserve so much money for doing semi-complete jobs where they are more likely to fail then successes?
Posted by: AnonymousYes
Professional athletes are extremely overpaid. I cannot stand seeing someone as unintelligent as Devin Hester on the Chicago Bears making more then people who put their life on the line or save lives. Devin will most likely follow suit like the the majority of professional athletes who end up broke when they leave professional sports. Most likely spending the money on selfish irrelevant items, multiple houses, annually purchasing brand new cars etc. You can say they have dedication and they gave up many things such as a social life, that is just bull. If you were told, "Hey if you give up being able to go out or do whatever you want for these certain times 7 days a week and we will pay you $750,000-22M anyone would do it. Also ask any professional athlete, their social life is anything but bad. They are put in the limelight for what they do, they date actresses and sometimes even make it on the red carpet. Saying they suffer socially is just as much of an oxymoron as "act naturally". Plus no one asked them to put anything on hold its all choice. Don't you think a law student or medical student puts their life on hold? How about every other damn person on this planet, they put their life on hold for the career or else they end up on the street, so please don't try and cop out with that. Addressing the fact that they put their health on the line, that is a risk they knowingly take, enough said, if your afraid of getting hurt don't do it and shut up. If they really care about the sport so much, they would play it regardless of what they get paid. Now, I'm not saying they should be paid $40,000 a year but instead of starting at $750,000 cap it at $750,000. If they want to make more then take the challenge that everyone else has to, go to school without having someone take the tests for them. I enjoy reading about players such as Terrell Owens, Lawrence Taylor, Michael Vick, Deuce McAllister and Bernie Kosar in football, and Allen Iverson, Scottie Pippen, Latrell Sprewell and Antoine Walker in basketball, and their financial struggles.
Posted by: AnonymousThey are over paid!
Professional athletes are over paid. Our president makes less than them and our economy keeps complaint about how we are so much in debt that we'll never get out, but how are we supposed to come out of and 11 trillion dollar debt especially when we are paying our athletes as much as $5 million dollars.
Posted by: CaityLindsayAthletes get paid way too much, and do nothing with it.
They get too much money and do foolishness with it, when they can help homeless people on the road. They don't do anything with the money. They can support people and support their families, and have a space in there heart to help. Get out of your bed and help people. When you're finished with practice, donate.
Posted by: AnonymousVery Much So
Sports players make no impact on anything in the community. They play sports for 7 years then are forgotten about. Teachers don't get paid as much and they shape the community. Police officers, EMT's, firemen, lawyers, doctors; all help the community, all getting a worse share in their pay checks
Posted by: KaylabooPro athletes are paid too much.
I understand that athletes have short careers, but why are they paid more money in one season than the average person in a decade? They play a game, that's all they do, a 'game'. Pro athletes do what young kids do for fun. And they may play their hardest even though there is a chance of sever injury, but so do soldier, firefighters, and police officers, though their not paid as much as athletes. I think it's wrong that people lose their lives across seas and their families get barley anything after their dead. But they get millions to tackle people.
Posted by: AnonymousThere is nothing wrong with making a living through sport
But we have many professionals out there, like teachers who are turning themselves inside out to make a positive difference in our society, so why are these athletes paid more for provinding often violent entertainment.
Posted by: AnonymousYes my companion.
They get extremely overpaid when in fact the money they make could easily be used for better purposes like when people say, "Help the people in Africa." SO HELP THEM. No need for people to make 100 million dollars in a year, why do they even need that kind of money? All their equipment gets sponsored and all they do is waste it.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes don't do that much for the money they earn.
For an athlete, that is too much money to be paid for just throwing a ball or hitting one. It isn't something you should be paid so much for just to have some fun. There are people who are out there risking their lives and getting paid for a percent or less of what athletes get. If I were the authority, I would lower the payments that athletes get and raise the ones who actually deserve it. It isn't that fair, because there are people who deserve more and are broke because they aren't paid that much. They can't pay their mortgage fees or their bills because they aren't paid the way they deserve.
Posted by: H0TW1NGSEnd up in cheating
By raising the salaries of professional athletes so tremendously, the not-so-good ones may develop a sense of greed and consider cheating for the future competitions. As you would know that recently, Lane Armstrong confessed that he had doped in the past Tour de France race and was later then stripped from all the titles he won. He did it for the glory, fame and most important of all----- money.
Posted by: AnonymousThey are overpaid!
I think that they are overpaid because they don't help society. It's dumb how some people are paid 30 million $ just to hit a ball, or catch a ball. All of this money can go toward better things like to try and help find a cure for cancer or any other diseases. Athletes should be definitely paid less money!
Posted by: AnonymousIt's all were the money is.
Teachers teach the next generation of people the skills they will need in life while athletes just play on short season and get paid more. While a teacher has one long year of grading papers, teaching students, and preparing them for life. Yet they get less than 1 tenth of an athlete.
Posted by: AnonymousDebt
While the world and the US sit in debt, the athletes are sitting pretty. Its absolutely ridiculous. Especially when they try to come to inner citys or to less fortune places and raise awarenss of poverty level, but yet they leave in a Bently. Why not cut their salary in half and give it to the goverment which they could then use it to help support our debt in the US.
Posted by: mburnett07Look at the pay checks of those who aren't athletes.
Minimum wage in Canada is 10 dollars an hour, they would work a few hours a day every week and earn about 200 dollars a week or more depending on the type of job. Athletes, however are paid millions just to play a game every once in awhile for a few hours. Millions compared to a few hundred is a big difference just to see someone play a game.
Posted by: AnonymousPro athletes are overpaid
Athletes get paid millions of dollars just to play a game while soldiers and police officers get way less than that. Someone who finishes high school and goes to college and works hard to get there money gets way less than a person who probably didnt even finish college gets millions of dollars. People who say that their fans control the amount of money they get are right, but what does that have to do with the fact that they get overpaid? However, we cant blame it on the fans. The players complain a lot about the amount of money and demand for more. Once Kenny Anderson complained that he cant pay the insurance for his eight cars. EIGHT CARS! They are overpaid.
Posted by: Awsum_ninjaPlease don't pay pro sportsmen big bucks just for entertainment.
If you didn't have doctors, you'd probably be sick. If you didn't have farmers, you'd probably be hungry. If you didn't have professional football players, you'd probably just be bored. But if there was no football, you would probably do something to get rid of that boredom. I still can't believe what people do for entertainment these days, and how much they are willing to pay to have fun by just watching other people play games.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, they don't deserve it.
In this economy, they don't need it, they keep it all to themselves and they waste it on stupid things like divorces from there wives because they end up cheating on them because he is never home and they are always traveling to play in some other state for a game. The money used to pay them can go to help the less fortunate or help with government cause we all know they need it.
Posted by: bs1998They are paid entirely too much.
They get too much money and do foolishness with it, when they can help homeless people on the road. They don't do anything with the money. They can support people and support there families and have a space on there heart to help. Get out of your bed and help people. When you're finished with practice, donate.
Posted by: AnonymousDoctors and Government officials need to get paid more.
Professional athletes are overpaid. They do not do anything to make the world go round. They just entertain us they dont make our health better or fix own bodies when we need it. Doctors make the world go round alone with government officials these people should get paid the most out of all people.
Posted by: AnonymousFor what they actually do, it's too much.
Veterans risk their lives to protect our countries and they don't even get paid half of what hockey players get paid. Hockey players have a very minor chance of dying from a game of hockey. I absolutely think it is ridiculous to pay hockey players that amount of money for what they do.
Posted by: AnonymousI believe that most professional athletes are over paid. This is an example of gluttony, greed and excess in our society.
I absolutely believe that most professional athletes are overpaid. It is very wasteful. I would be embarrassed to accept a huge salary like Alex Rodriguez. It sends a message like I am so great and wonderful I deserve this extravagant amount of money. Knowing there is suffering, hunger, and disease in this world. It makes me ill to think about.
Posted by: TaraThiWhat do sports do for the society?
Provide entertainment. That's it. They don't save lives or provide necessary resources we all need. Firefighters, police, farmers, doctors, and teachers are important to the society and they get paid less than 1% of a pro athlete's salary. Also, the money we wish we could make, is not enough for them. Million dollar contracts are taken as a joke or insult. The salaries are in eight digits. Eight! Most of us make five digits or less a year. They make more in a year then a hard working employee makes in their whole life! That is uncalled for. We have the power to change this. Don't spend tons of money on the team. Don't buy tickets to go see them and don't buy official merchandise. Jersey's, mugs, pictures, etc. All of those are why they are paid so much. Remember what you are spending your actually hard working money on next time you see a sweatshirt for your favorite team; people who already make too much money and still want more.
Posted by: rwoods019It's just a game
While teachers are still as ridiculously underpaid as they are, professional athletes do not need to be making millions of dollars a year on a recreational activity. While I recognize the hard work that the individuals in that field have done to get where they are, I do not view their jobs in entertainment at the same level that I view teachers, doctors, and other such professionals.
Posted by: CaliforniaAll they do is play games.
My dad is a Marine fighting for our country and deserves to be paid more than someone chasing a ball around a gym. Kobe Bryant is baking 52.3M for playing basketball, my dad barely makes $80,000 a year with 28 years of service. I'm not the only one who thinks that's messed up, am I?
Posted by: AnonymousThey just are
It should be very clear to people that sport stars are well over-paid. My reasons being, that there are wiser and more efficient ways to give money, other workers deserve a higher pay than them and most sports are just silly games.
Firstly, the average sport star earns approximately two million dollars a year. Poverty is a massive problem across the globe. Would it not make sense to help the people in need instead? Such money will make a huge difference in their lives. If sport stars earned less, it wouldn’t make a massive difference in their lives. They would still have their basic human needs, such luxuries are bought with less than two dollars a day for others.
Secondly, there are other workers who deserve more money than sport stars. The president of the United States and the Prime-minister of Australia earn less than a sport star, and they run a country! All sport stars do is play games and chase after a ball. Sport stars bearly work six months a year, whilst other workers, such as teachers work ten. And still all the money goes towards the sport stars anyway. What effects do sport stars have on society apart from entertainment? Nothing. However, teachers work with children to ensure that there future, and more importantly, their generation, is a great one.
Lastly, most sports are just silly games. Sport stars are getting paid to chase after a ball and tackle each other. Dogs could do that. Why are getting paid so much? I know I don’t get paid for playing a game of chess.
In conclusion, sport stars are well over-paid because there are more efficient ways to give money, there are more deserving workers for the money, and really, all sport is, is just stupid games.Posted by: AnonymousYes, think of it with the military or armed forces
Now I'm not trying to bash on athletes, i'm a sports fan myself I just don’t think it’s right that someone who is fighting for our country and our independence should be given less money because they are the ones who give us the opportunity to live with no fear in our lives.
Posted by: AnonymousAbsolutely
While there are policemen, firefighters, and people in the military risking their lives everyday and only getting a fraction of what professional athletes are paid, it is quite simple to determine whether or not athletes are overpaid. There needs to be a set balance so that it doesn't go overboard.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, pro athletes are paid to much.
All pro athletes do is play a game. They don't do anything that is really important in our country. Everyday people are risking lives and actually helping out in their community while all the athletes do is play a game for our entertainment. Policemen, Firemen, and teachers are paid almost one percent as much as a pro athlete. Sure they could get hurt playing games but everyone could get hurt too, it's not like they are loyalty. Honestly, what are they doing beside entertainment. Nothing important for the community.
Posted by: TeaRohrbergReally Society??
Where I live, professional athletes are paid the most money, even more than doctors. People who consistently work night shifts, and SAVE PEOPLE'S LIVES EVERYDAY are paid less than someone who can catch a ball and run fast.
Whoopee.Posted by: ishallannoyyoEasy Money,so much so that it makes the majority of us look stupid
They are role models? Please. Poor excuse to use.
It is insulting to the rest of us society as we work hard to make our keep. They easily make money just by having their face on Adidas/Nike goods? Wow, so easy.
The only reason why they made it big is because their parents brought them us and trained them from young. I was not so lucky.
Entertainment is better when I play the sport myself. Or simply buy an electronic game as there is ton of replay value. Looking at others knowing I am helping them make their rice bowl so easily does not entertain me, thank you very much.Posted by: AnonymousWay overpaid
Soldiers put their life in complete danger so we can be free. If it weren't for soldiers, athletes may not even be able to play. We too often forget just how important soldiers are. Playing a sport isn't going to save lives, or give us any freedom. Soldiers deserve so much more than they get. I'm ashamed that someone who plays a sport gets paid more than someone who leaves home, their family, travels across the world to somewhere that they could get killed and lay down their life for our country. Soldiers deserve so much more than they get.
Posted by: AnonymousThey could help our Country!
YES! Do you see any athletes or movie star helping create new jobs or pay the taxes they should be paying? Why do we worship vanity instead of education? Now I believe they should get paid a little more than the average person, but the extreme number that athletes and movie stars get paid drastically effects our economy.
Posted by: AnonymousWay overpaid
These people don't deserve half of what they get. Yes there is a risk of injury, but it is totally unjustified. If they are going to ask for more money because they could get hurt, they should become a policeman or firefighter so they can get hurt to save lives.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, professional athletes are overpaid, because their services are not as important as other, more necessary professions.
Professional athletes are overpaid. While they are earning millions of dollars playing games for the entertainment of others, teachers are scrounging to get by. Many school districts are so overwrought with debt and corruption, that the children end up suffering for it. I believe that people's salaries should be more reflective of how important and necessary their careers are to society.
Posted by: ShowKiIIYes They Are!
I think pro athletes are getting paid way too much. So why give them more money than our Fire department that risks lives for other people, I do not know.
What I do know is that they get these huge checks. But for what? So they can get broken ribs?! That’s CRAZY! They make more money than Firefighters, police, ambulance, and they even out pay people in the war fighting for our country! Now the people in the war fighting for our country is where the money should go, not to people throwing a chunk of pig skin around, I don’t see them fighting for our country, do you?! NO!Posted by: JamesDaG33KShouldn't they be playing for fun?
When athletes decide to play a sport, they don't right away think they will be playing professional. They play because they like the sport. So when they get offered a job to play for a college or professional team, they are choosing to play. This shows that they are good, but I believe people who contribute to every day life should get more money than those playing sports for a living.
Posted by: AnonymousYes.
All I am going to say is, I'll play baseball professioanlly for a million a year for the next ten years just like I was on the little league fields as a child again. I love the sport, but its not a real life job. Get real.
Posted by: AnonymousMoney can go elsewhere
Athletes are definitely overpaid. They should be paid less so that we can use the extra money for things that are actually needed in this country. Military fighters deserve that money more and so do the people that are dying due to homelessness. We can find much better then professional athletes.
Posted by: AnonymousHow much is to much?
Teachers are barely paid and they spend 6 hours with our kids. Also, our military fight for our freedom while their husbands or wives struggle to make ends meet. And of course there are millions of families that also struggle. In the long run pro sports are just games. Stop paying these athletes!
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes aren't as important as we make them seem.
I think that the money should be given to people who deserve it. Not people who work out and play a game for an 1 hour a week. People like teachers, cops, fire fighters, people who put other people before themselves. It makes no sense to me why they should be paid so much. I could work out just as much and play 1 game a week, but not get paid for it. You have to be put on a special team. Even that isn't fair.
Posted by: DaniRatekinThey Get Too Much Money Just To Entertain Us
The money going to all the professional athletes could be going to different causes like disaster relief, the government, and the very bad economy. Instead, millions of dollars are going to professional athletes just to ENTERTAIN us. The sports department is really corrupted right now. In the 1900s, players were only receiving about 40,000 dollars. A player had to be amazing to receive a contract of 1,000,000 dollars. Nowadays, 1 million dollars offered would be insulting to the players.
Posted by: Anonymousthey get too much for just playing a sport
Pro-Athletes are, in my opinion, very much overpaid. This is for a few reasons. For one thing, all they do is play a sport. Sure sports are important but all they really are is entertainment. There are many jobs way more important than theirs in the world like doctors and teachers and they only get less than a tenth of what athletes get.
Posted by: AnonymousSimply entertainers
They are simply entertainers and do not add any value to our society. Same goes for Actors. Society could easily do without them. High pay should go to those who service our community and add value to it such as teachers, doctors, nurses, police, ambulance attendants, etc. Society could not function as it does without them.
Posted by: AnonymousThey get paid too much in relation to the average person.
These people get millions of dollars a season. This season Felix Hernandez, a pitcher for the Seattle Mariners, will be getting 25 million dollars! That is ridiculous! The average person doesn't make that much in a lifetime! All he does is go out and pitch every five games and makes an enormous amount of money. This needs to change. Other people who work their tails off struggle to support themselves. These people who entertain other people live in mansions with excess everything and still have millions left for who knows what. It hurts to think that they get thousands of dollars a game. It is time for a change.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes are overpaid
Athletes today are getting our tax $ for losing games and not even playing. WE ARE PAYING THEIR SALARIES!!! But the players are no more selfish than the owners that pay them. They are getting paid for entertaining our youth and adults. Athletes should get the salaries of everyday people. We do way more work than athletes do to own a little house while all they have to do is hit or throw a ball and get a mansion. WHAT ARE WE TEACHING OUR CHILDREN!!
Posted by: AnonymousThey don't deserve it
Athletes don't deserve millions, they don't do anything necessary. By that I mean they entertain, unlike doctors. Doctors, lawyers, etc go to college then law or medical school and work their way up. They work hard to get where they are. Athletes just have to be good at a skill. All they have is that skill. And in all honesty it's not doing anything important. Saving someones life is important. Keeping innocent people from going to prison is important. But entertainment is not worth millions of dollars.
Posted by: d6410They don't deserve.
I believe that athletes are overpaid. All they do is play a game in front of people, they don't make any lives any better. All they do is put on a show for people that want to watch. They don't teach people anything, except to waste their money on things.
Posted by: AnonymousI think professional athletes are completely overpaid when they are not even important in this world.
I think it is completely unfair for stadiums to charge such outrageous prices for people to come enjoy a game of baseball or hockey, just so they can pay their players outrageous amounts of money for being on their team. All that guy is doing is what he loves, and there are people that are way more important in this world such as cops and teachers and nurses that don't get paid anywhere near are much but we NEED them.
Posted by: Starbustoff course
too much money for what they do. It not fair that people struggle to put food on the table and they guys make millions of dollars. I do believe they should get paid well as sport franchises do make lots of money, but they make way too much. Why isnt six figures enough to live on? it doesnt make sense.
Posted by: AnonymousThey are not doing things that require that much money.
They should get paid an amount, just not millions of dollars each year. It isn't necessary. We could use it for other things, like military families who struggle because their dad is out at war. Many athletes are paid in the millions. What other things could that money be used for, instead of big houses and fancy cars? Athletes should be paid in the hundred-thousands. As an athlete myself, I know the hard work that is put into trying to be the best, but is it really worth millions?
Posted by: AnonymousThe bench warmer debate
If any athlete make more than the president there's a problem. I love sports but even this is a problem for me. Either raise his salary or hugely lower theirs. Bench warmers who never play in baseball make more than the president and he runs our country! Or you could just put them in more :).
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes are getting paid WAY to much
why should it be fair that these "pro" athletes get tens and hundereds of millions of dollars while people that steal food to feed their family and the middle class/ lower class get paid next to nothing? These people are entertainers and dont deserve what they get. Other jobs and people in the professional area dont get paid millions of dollars for throwing, catching, or kicking a stupid ball. these police men and firemen and docters dont get paid nearly as much as they should making this whole cycle unfair.
Posted by: AnonymousYes, they most certainly are since most of them are playing a game that any of us could play, but they get paid to play every day.
I really think many pro athletes are ridiculously overpaid. How anyone can justify the amount of money that golfers make is beyond my comprehension. Professional baseball players getting paid millions and millions of dollars to play baseball, how does that make sense? Their job is to play baseball. These are people getting paid millions to play games that we play in our spare time for fun, and they get so much money it's mind boggling. It's a waste of money that could be spent in so much more useful ways to people much more deserving.
Posted by: PinkMychWhy are they paid so much?
Sure they help entertain us but they don't do anything else to help the community. There are hard working people that have actual jobs and work five days a weak and still get paid less. Today's children might be thinking about being in sports to get loads of money instead of knowing what it's like to get a real job. Can't people see that more important people like teachers, police officers, etc. are getting paid so much less when they deserve more. All the players are doing are doing is playing a game for a couple hours, so why so much money?
Posted by: anonymous321Yes, most professional athletes are overpaid.
If your house were burning, would you rather call the fire department or a basketball team? If we don’t give enough cash to people we often take for granted, we’ll probably end up with a flaming Kobe Bryant dribbling us to safety. Professional athletes are overpaid, and other trades people should get more money based on how much they contribute to society.
We need to have a different way to value someone’s worth. Let’s say that Jim is a professional football player and Joe is a teacher. Jim plays a game three hours a day, three days a week, six months a year, and gets paid in the millions. Joe educates the next generation seven hours a day, six days a week, ten months a year, and gets paid around $25,000. Compared to professionals like fire fighters, policemen and teachers, there aren't very many high-level professional athletes. Based on economics, they command a lot of money because there’s a limited supply of them. However, the economics scale is completely messed up when it comes to professional sportsmen.
We need to value the worth of professionals based on how much they benefit society. Army volunteers risk their lives to stop warring nations. The average basketball player only provides entertainment, and gets paid more anyway, even though the risk of death is much lower. They also set a bad example for children. Some think that they could go to college and get a good job. Most might think they could skip school and get paid millions for playing a game.
It needs to stop because it’s out of control; professional athletes will never be satisfied with what they have. Most professional athletes get paid almost 100 times more than the average desk worker, just to play a game. Yet not one of them is pleased by all their wealth. Kenny Anderson once complained he didn't have enough money to cover insurance costs for his eight cars. Yes, EIGHT CARS! Currently, he is trying to fit in as a dad, but his kids might not view the world from another person’s perspective.
If we aren't careful, this imbalance of salaries could hurt our society. The Roman Empire fell because people were putting too much money into entertainment, and not enough into defense. And you know how history repeats? Well, I don’t want this to happen to the U.S. and you probably don’t want it either. However, at the rate we’re going, the country might fall apart any year now.Posted by: AnonymousToo Much Money
while these athletes are practically swimming in tons of money people in countries such as Ethiopia are lucky to get food if any. Maybe instead of giving billions and billions of dollars to entertainers because thats all they are they entertain the public. The money could be going to people less fortunate than them such as the people in Ethiopia who struggle to stay alive.
Posted by: AnonymousIt is our own fault
We are the ones watching these sports. We are the ones paying money into these franchises. We carry the demand to have all of these forms of entertainment. Franchises know how much we are willing to pay, and let them get away with it. My biggest complaint are the million dollar athletes. So much could be done with the money that is being used in their pay checks. Yes, some professional athletes do give back, but they are a minority. If a franchise has enough cash to give out those paychecks, then they would have enough money and power to pay higher tax rates and follow stricter regulations.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes receive way too much money
Some people get paid nothing and here are athletes getting millions of dollars. I know that they are really talented but, this is too crazy. Millions of dollars are paid for the athlete to join a team and the prices are getting higher and higher. I think athletes should be paid less.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes earn way more than they deserve.
Sports figures earn about more than $1,000,000 for just joining. If I got a job, should I get paid when I haven't even started work yet? Athletes are playing sports, which you can also do at school or with a friend, and you don't get money there, do you? NO, YOU DON'T! That's injustice!
Posted by: AnonymousExcessive salaries for a little work.
Athletes contribute little to the improvement of modern society. They are merely entertainers on par with the gladiators in ancient Rome. The gladiators were not paid, but were in fact owned as slaves. Modern athletes are paid an exorbitant wage while real workers are paid very small amounts by comparison.
Posted by: AnonymousThere are people who have no food, shelter, and money.
The people in Africa are suffering from dangerous diseases and they're dying of hunger. These people deserve the money more than the celebrities and athletes do. Some people even live in the streets with no homes and jobs. Therefore, I believe that celebrities and athletes are being overpaid just for doing something normal.
Posted by: AnonymousProfessional sports people are overpaid and shouldn't be.
If your house were burning, would you rather call the fire department or a basketball team? If we don’t give enough cash to people we often take for granted, we’d probably end up with a flaming Kobe Bryant dribbling you to safety. Professional athletes are overpaid and other trades people should get more money based on how much they contribute to society.
We need to have a different way to value someone’s worth. Let’s say that Jim is a professional football player and Joe is a teacher. Jim plays a game three hours a day, three days a week, six months a year, and gets paid in the millions. Joe educates the next generation seven hours a day, six days a week, ten months a year, and gets paid around 25 thousand. Compared to professionals like fire fighters, policemen and teachers, there are not very many high level professional athletes. Based on economics, they command a lot of money because there’s a limited supply of them. However, the economics scale is completely messed up when it comes to professional sports men.
We need to value the worth of professionals based on how much they benefit society. Army volunteers risk their lives to stop warring nations. The average basketball player only provides entertainment and gets paid more, even though the risk of death is much lower. They also set a bad example for children. Some think that they could go to college and get a good job. Most might think they could skip school and get paid millions for playing a game.
It needs to stop, as it’s out of control, and professional athletes will never be satisfied with what they have. Most professional athletes get paid almost 100 times that the average desk worker does, to just play a game. Yet not one of them is pleased by all their wealth. Kenny Anderson complained he didn't have enough money to cover insurance costs for his eight cars. Currently, he is trying to fit in as a dad, but his kids might not view the world from another person’s perspective.
If we aren't careful, this imbalance of salaries could hurt our society. The Roman Empire fell because people were putting too much money into entertainment and not enough for the armies. And you know how history repeats itself? Well, I don’t want this to happen to the U.S., and you probably don’t want it, either. However, at the rate we’re going, the country might fall apart any year now.Posted by: AnonymousBetter uses for the money
ALL of their salaries should be cut in half and the money should be used to help the less fortunate people around the world. I thought all men were created equal? so why are they all of a higher rank just because they have more money than the majority of us? its not fair.
Posted by: AnonymousYES
Athletes today are getting our tax $ for losing games and not even playing. WE ARE PAYING THEIR SALARIES!!! But the players are no more selfish than the owners that pay them. They are getting paid for entertaining our youth and adults. Athletes should get the salaries of everyday people. I do way more work than athletes do to own a little house, while all they have to do is hit or throw a ball and get a mansion. WHAT ARE WE TEACHING OUR CHILDREN?
Posted by: AnonymousMillions for playing a kids game?
It's ridiculous that a player can make enough money to buy a small country, but someone like a police officer or soldier who put their lives on the line have to se to make ends meet. The whole though process is backward.
Posted by: AnonymousI believe
Why should an athlete get a $70,000 check on Monday after throwing 5 interceptions the Sunday before? Do these athletes really deserve all that money? Not in my mind. Professional athletes are making too much money in a society where salaries and wages are based on the value of one's work. In today's society, you should be paid according to the job’s economic importance and value.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes are definitely overpaid.
Athletes are the most overpaid human beings on the planet. Most doctors and lawyers get paid less than the veteran minimum in professional sports. Are sports even necessary? No. Are they fun? Yes but they are definitely not necessary. We couldn't live in our world without lawyers and doctors and we could definitely go on without professional athletes.
Posted by: AnonymousPro athletes are overpaid in my opinion.
There was once a time when getting paid a million dollars to play basketball or baseball was a big deal to athletes, but now if you were getting paid that much, other athletes would most likely laugh at you. There are many jobs that don't even come close to a tenth of the pay of these athletes but they do twice the work. Their jobs are just pure entertainment, nothing else. While there are people working their hardest to help society like teachers, police officers, and not to mention the people in the army or the firefighters who risk their lives every day. So, you tell me are these athletes overpaid?
Posted by: Anonymousmillitary
they are way over paid someone said they risk their bodys yeah well people risk their lives in the millitary and dont get paid nearly as much as pro athletes do you want entertainment or do you want to be taken over by some other country anyone who thinks that they are not over paid go research it i will bet you change your mind -Jesse Keppel
Posted by: AnonymousYes, I think most professional athletes are overpaid in relation to their actual work or play, in this case.
I think that professional athletes earn a lot more than they actually are worth. There seems to be a lot of hype surrounding them and their personal lives which drives their prices up. It does seem absurd compared to the actual time they spend in sporting events!
Posted by: TigerDeIIyes
should be paid by importance in society
Posted by: AnonymousYes they are getting paid way too much!
There are people that are saving peoples lives each any every day, knowing that they can loose there lives will doing there job. Why arent they even getting naerly as much. Doctors and scientist that saves lives and make cures for everyone around the world don't even get as near as much athletes do. That's just terrible!
Posted by: AnonymousThey dont do anything to support society
There are professions like doctors and farmers that are necessary to survival. We would not be able to live without them. But then there are professions like professional athletes that dont contribute to anything but entertainment. I think they should be high paid like a doctor but i do not think that all of these multi million dollar contracts do anything. There are nurses out there that barely have enough to survive but injured athletes will still get millions of dollars? Its ridiculous
Posted by: AnonymousMoney is going to waste.
It's just a tad bit unfair that the people like teachers, veterans, doctors, scientists work hard every day, and actually have caused the progress of this country, earn a fraction of the money that people who kick a ball back and forth and get paid millions of dollars earn?
This money should go elsewhere! There are much more important ways to spend this money, such as helping the homeless or cancer research.Posted by: AnonymousThere are more important people
All an athlete does is prance up and down an field/court/arena playing a sport just anyone can do. But can everyone perform critical surgerys? Nope. Does everyone fight for their country In the army/navy/marines ect. Nope! So why pay them so much! All this excess money can be put back into the government and be used for things we ACTUALLY need!
Posted by: Avi_reneeThey do too little for too much.
Entertaining people with their talent should not be worth the millions and billions of dollars they make. Other occupations make less money for doing more work. That is unfair to everyone who put years and years into schooling and get less credit. Athletes should be honorable to others by using their talent for more entertainment than money. They should not be paid the amount of money they are receiving because they can physically do things not everyone can.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes don't save lives.
Yes athletes are extremely over paid. Honestly, if you don't think they are overpaid, you're basically saying that the lives of hundreds of people that could actually use that money means less than the entertainment of thousands. Homeless people could use some money too, instead of Manny Pacquiao keeping the 32,000,000 he gets from boxing every year? Also people that actually contribute to our society such as doctors, teachers, fire fighters, and police officers are extremely underpaid. They generally make under 70,000 with the exception of doctors. But honestly, how could anyone think that someone deserves an 8 digit salary for throwing a ball.
Posted by: dragonslayer207They are overpaid.
Most professional athletes are subject to getting more credit and pay than they are actually required. Any athlete that received an Olympic medal or scored for his country's soccer team would receive a greater pay than an athlete who has put in an equal amount of effort. Many Olympic athletes still live in similar conditions as they did earlier and the government does not bother encouraging them to continue the effort by giving them bonuses for their effort.
Posted by: Anonymousno
they are paid way way way to much money.i know they play sports and all but come on they make millions when people who work really hard for there money barley have enough to get by.
Posted by: AnonymousTeachers underpaid
Teachers teach the future of kids to later become doctors or leaders, players are just paid alot for entertainment for the public or great talent of the game, they don't teach the future of our young. Athletes should get paid less but still a good amount as they also worked hard for it too
Posted by: AnonymousWe could use the money for better things.
Most of the world's professional athletes are overpaid. My main reason and frontal attack to back me up is the United States Military. I would like to join the military once I turn 18 years of age and currently I am 16. I have been looking into it and some professional athletes are paid A LOT more than military personnel. It infuriates me knowing that some guy/girl staying in a nice big plush house gets paid more than a man/woman protecting our country.
Posted by: Morgan_C_McIntoshProfessional athletes are grossly overpaid and overrated in our society. What exactly do they contribute to society that is so valuable?
Along with other celebrities, professional athletes are paid way out of proportion to the work they do and the contribution they make to society. When compared to the work load of teachers, police, firemen, social workers, nurses and others who do contribute to their communities, the wages of professional athletes are grossly out of line. I often wonder how our society has gotten its values so misplaced that we allow this kind of injustice to continue.
Posted by: 54IInfernothey are over paid
They get over paid because of supply and demand but there are teachers and doctors that don't get paid half of what athletes do. Okay lets say you are a doctor saving lives almost every day do pro athletes do that, no. The same goes with the army they are protecting our freedom. Teachers teach people how to spell, talk, & do math, and yet they hardly get paid. Yea its fun to watch ,but the problem is the economy and that the government does not give the money to more important things like saving an endangered species or saving someone from cancer that's how stupid the government is and that's why i think that pro athletes are over paid
Posted by: trianghereSports = entertainment
Entertainment is fine in its place. But entertainment worth millions and millions of dollars a game? Um aha no. Entertainment is an extra. Not a necessity. Would I die without football? No. Would I die without a doctor (who makes less then ten present of what sports players make) who gives me chemo? Yes.
Posted by: AnonymousOverpaid for doing a sh*t job
I swear to God, the NBA is so much like the teacher's unions, they are all paid the same amount regardless if they did a better job or not, but the NBA is more justified than the public teachers, the NBA is a sport's program that is paid through fans who pay for entertainment if they want to, public school teachers are paid through taxes and the people paying those taxes don't have a choice if they want to pay or not
Posted by: msaka33Yes
Pro athletes are overpaid because soldiers, fire fighters, and police men put their lives on the line just to make our lives better. Those heroes don't make as much, while athletes just play a game and make millions.
Posted by: AnonymousHell to the yes
These people don't deserve their salaries. They throw a ball into a hoop, or score a touchdown. Do they save lifes? No! They play a few months a year and make millions; a doctor works daily with maybe a few weeks off a year and they make thousands a year. This is totally unfair.
Posted by: LoverOfDixieChicks
No, they are not overpaid.
All athletes have times of the year where they do not get paid at all. It is difficult to find a job during the off-seasons of sports. Also, that makes it hard to be able to pay bills and taxes. I think they should be paid more. People have no clue how hard athletes train.
Posted by: AnonymousPro athletes are not overpaid.
They work so hard for themselves, to make their family proud, and for the millions of fans all across the world. Imagine you working long hours away from your family, training until you sweat an entire swimming pool. For what? To be paid $60,000 a year? I think they deserve all of the money that they make, even if it is $58.5 million per year.
Posted by: AnonymousI completely disagree.
These athletes work extremely hard to perform the way they do. You only see what they do on the commercials and games but have you even thought about what they do other than that? Most of their free time involves rigorous training, exercise, and diet. These athletes don't get the things they work for by just sitting around. And most athletes do give back to their communities and people less fortunate than them.
Posted by: AnonymousWhat's your occupation?
Pro athletes grow up putting everything they have into their sport. They sacrifice things that other people are doing so they can get better. Even college sports eat up the whole week of an athlete. They balance school, sports and family and so much more. Their whole lives they work for only a couple years of pay. If you have ever put half the effort these athletes put into their sport maybe would be successful too. You think Mike Jordan just walked into the NBA without any work, sacrifice and practice? He was on the court day in and day out. You can't say these athletes are overpaid when they've been working for this their whole lives. The life of an athlete is difficult. You only see the outside you don't know what that life is like you only assume.
Posted by: AnonymousFans give them their salary
Another reason they get paid more is because they get greater cash inflow than from being a firefighter, or teacher. If the owners didn’t give the players the money people could think that that is unfair and the players too. That might cause a shutout. That is my supporting argument for why they get paid fine.
Posted by: AnonymousWHAT if it was you?
I must state that even though many people may believe that the salary of professional athleats and even movie stars and entertainers is much to high,think if it was you. Might you be glad to encept that kind of check. Perhaps you could do good with it. Perhaps you would be selfish with it. Eaither way those athletes or stars desearve to get the money they worked for. I do understand tHAT THE MONIE DEFINATELY COULD BE USED FOR MORE IMPORTANT PRODJECTS. such as cure for cancers, paying doctors,poliece,firemen, ect. WHat i do disagree about thier wages is the fact that our tax doler pays for them, in conclusion they do desearve to get the mony as much as anyone else,but whos to say the mony couldnt be used for someone who needs it more
Posted by: AnonymousIs David Letterman overpaid?
Professional athletes are entertainers. Entertainment is probably the most highly valued product/service in western society today. As participants in the entertainment process, athletes deserve a reasonable share of the revenue/profit they generate through participation in this process.
Plus, if you want to lower an athlete's salary, it's quite simple - take their sport out of your mix of entertainment choices. If the NBA's fan base, for example, dropped to the level of MLS's fan base, player salaries would drop like a lead ball.Posted by: malcolmxyNo -- here's some real support for this argument.
They are entertainers. Much like movie stars or any other celebrity that brings in multimillion dollar salaries, they are paid to entertain. Yet you don't see movie stars or singers being harassed that their salaries are too high for what they do. Athletes also receive their payment from the industry; sports fans pay upwards of $400 per ticket. Among ticket sales, merchandise, advertisements, etc. The professional sports industry brings in billions of dollars a year. And this money is obviously going to go towards the people who brought it in -- the athletes. It goes not only towards the athletes, but to the sports departments and other staff as well. And guess what? Capping that pay, isn't going to make your police officers, doctors, etc. Get paid any more than they do now. It goes to the people who earned it. Sorry. Taking away athletes' salaries won't fix your own. Simple as that. They don't get to pick their salaries, just as any other average person doesn't. The money is generated through the industry. The talent required to participate in professional sports is also rare and therefore in high demand. It takes a lot of effort and hard work for professional athletes to get where they are in their careers (and not all of them are pushed there by their parents -- horrible excuse). And lastly, pro athletes participate in difficult, competitive, and sometimes aggressive sports which can cause them to receive severe injuries. And unlike any average person, their injuries will cause them to lose their job, without question. They face risking their job every single time they work. Professional athletes get paid just what they deserve financially. Do some research.
Posted by: AnonymousThey bring in millions to their franchise
Think of it this way. Lets say you work for a company and you are getting paid minimum wage, and one day you make a product that brings that company millions of dollars. Is it fair for you to still get paid minimum wage? I think not. These guys bring in millions of dollars to the franchises that they play for so they should get paid that same amount if not more. Plus these pros are taxed at least $100,000 dollar usually more.
Posted by: AnonymousI love athletes
as an athlete, i would have to say that there is a ton of work that goes into sports. Professional athletes are on a strict workout schedule and diet and its not something that any old person could go through. Most people dont have the dedication to do the exact same thing every day but they do it for our entertainment. They sacrifice a lot from their social lives and family life for us so i say pay them as much as you want.
Posted by: AnonymousNHS and Army- No Way.
there is much more money put into sports because more poeple are involved in it. anyone that says soldiers should be paid more is quite frankly ignorant and oblivious. Less money is put into the NHS and the army because they are not as many people that need to be paid in it. There are millions of footballers in particular, and probably billlions of fans; thus creating the players a larger wage because there are more paying customers in which to pay the players.
Posted by: Brandon_SmithI think no.
Because they work hard, they deserve the money that they get. People just think it is unfair that they get more money than the average person. I mean, we all make money here, so no need to argue that the answer is yes because it is no. There is no need for this debate. End of discussion.
Posted by: A0508409Injury
These athletes are putting themselves in risk of injury everyday to be the best at their job and entertain the fans. They are working hard pretty much every day, harder than most people have physically in their life. So before you say that these athletes don't deserve it, think about how dedicated they are.
Posted by: AnonymousThey aren't overpaid
NBA people have only a career of 3.8 years and they need that money too survive their life. Imagine if somebody handed you a 30 dollar bill and said survive for 3 days. They also need to train for their few games. They train all day. They aren't even with their parents. They also need to pay for their plane tickets and new shoes to play better to get more money to last them 30 years. At least before they die.
Posted by: AnonymousThey have a lot of responsibility.
They have to spend more time than other jobs, traveling a lot and training, so that they don't spend much time with their family. In addition, athletes have the responsibility of their country’s tradition and their careers are not long as other careers, because if they get injured they will lose everything. Moreover, they have a talent that make them different than others.
Posted by: abdulelahalkhadharThey do not get paid enough.
Athletes in general do not get paid enough. Yes the numbers may seem absurd at first but is it really enough? Look at what they have to go through every day in and out. Some athletes such as Tiger Woods follow the same schedule every morning by waking up early, eating the same food and training all day. They don't have a break, ever. Also you can look at it as a selling point. People pay for the athletes. For example they bring in so much money by having the fans follow them and pay to see their favorite athletes. If this wasn't the case the team would get more and the athletes would be getting a run around in their paycheck. Overall there is more than just a number in front of big name professionals and a lot of dedication that goes into that.
Posted by: AnonymousIf they don't get paid there will be no sports.
If there is no sports people will lose a lot. Do people know how dedicated some people are to sports? If they take that away people will cause riots in every single city. The world would come to a end. The world would be full of bloody idiots and no one could stop them.
Posted by: AnonymousNo they're not Overpaid
They have to leave their family and travel around the country. They work their butts off in the gym everyday sweating, bleeding and crying. Then there's the paparazzi and stuff, therefore they're not over paid. Of course some people are, NBA players are not in shape and getting paid big millions, They are over paid, but not all of them. Kobe Bryant deserves 30 million per year. Where would the league be without him? He sells out every arena in every city. Just an example. Others that deserve their millions are Lebron.
Posted by: AnonymousDon't double standard
If you're willing to live in a world where music artists and actors are paid in millions, then don't go saying athletes shouldn't just because you don't like sports.
Athletes are literally slaved (yes it's a passion, but it is extreme hardwork with zero breaks essentially). While many occupations give you the opportunity to actually lounge around or pretend to call in sick, you can't do that in a job that has all eyes watching your body. Your performance is shown during all working hours, whilst in half of your office meetings, you could probably get away with daydreaming for most of it.
Let's not also forget how much these guys are forced to move homes if a new team purchases the player in a different city and such or injuries than can cost 20k to 50k to exclusively repair surgically.
Not to mention how there are so many people not suited to office work or anything that's uses pen and paper. Think about all the people that came out of poor places and managed to provide and escape because of sports like those that made it out of the ghetto and become NBA/NFL stars.
Don't go calling this a kid's game either. It's possibly the most visible form of progress and inspiration for anyone to witness and get motivated from. My former-suicidal self personally wouldn't even be alive if it wasn't for the certain athletes that I see go through much worse on and off the court/field.
And a lot of them donate and do all those fundraiser programs anyway.
Majority of you disagreers keep saying such bland things like "It's just a bunch of people scrambling fighting over a ball" or "That money could be used elsewhere"
Well wake up, if it wasn't used to entertain you, it was probably going to be used in a much more selfish way considering they get payed by PRIVATE TEAM OWNERS.
Btw those of you who claim athletes only work 3 hours a week or something are out of your mind. They work way longer than we do and even off the job they're always either conditioning or dieting and various other things.Posted by: Anonymousthey work for what they earn
Its not the athletes fault its the owners fault they pay them so much to keep them so the star player can guide the team to infinity to behind and they also get paid to much for the brevity of their careers because the owner knows their star player isn't gonna be their forever either he gets traded, retires and becomes a free agent so the owner pays what satisfy their little star and is happy and wont leave the organization and their team now can get more media and be more productive and he can lift the team to the playoffs and that means people will pay alot more to see the star play in their colors so that means if the fans are happy the whole team is and the star gets a little bonus then more and more.The another reason is injuries so they will also want to appreciate what they have before its gone so they pay him money for that reason also.
Posted by: qwertyuioppppppppplkjhgfdAverage pay for the average
Pro athletes are extraordinary people. Their skills are unmatched by 99% of people. How many people are comparable to someone like Calvin Johnson. He's the best wide receiver in the NFL. Calvin is 6'5 238 pounds and runs a 4.4 forty. And has a 43 inch vertical. Only his fellow athletes can match his athleticism, he's incredible. He is not average, so why would he deserve average pay? His employers scout all over for people like him, his talent is in high demand. Why would someone who works at a job that takes talent that most people have. To be a soldier, you only have to be somewhat competent and relatively healthy. If soldiers where paid high wages everyone would be one.
Posted by: AnonymousNo they are not
No because look, you have to look beyond the MLB or the NHL. If you were to be drafted by the MLB your first year in A/AA/AAA is a knee dropping $30,000. That's lower then the average U.S family. No one understands what they push for. They're lives revolve around this one opportunity. And all of you who say they are don't even play a sport or they never did!
Posted by: AnonymousIt's true to some degree
Athletes work hard just like everyone else in the word. Think about this most of the money comes from endorsements and things to that nature. When the taxes are taken out they really don't receive as much as you think. Also the people who say yes probably are only thinking about the highest paid athletes when in fact the average amount an athlete gets is only like 1.5 million dollars. So what if they get paid a lot they end up giving back to the community anyways.
Posted by: AnonymousIt's not athlete's faults that they are paid too much.
You're the one who goes to the game and pays for the ticket, drink, food, and souvenir, not to mention the jerseys and memorabilia you buy. In addition, athletes get money from being televised. The owners make even more money than the highest paid player because of the salary cap. They earn their money, and they work hard doing it.
Posted by: EllwoodEA3They are not overpaid by any means.
Although the law of supply and demand is not an actual law, it elucidates the effect the availability of a product and the aspiration for that product has on price. Supply and demand is the base to any economic understanding. In the United States, we live in a capitalistic society. Under capitalism, a person is paid capital, or a salary, slightly less than the profit that the employer believes he will receive upon hiring the employee. This is factual in any case – including sports. It is often argued that professional athletes are overpaid; however, this is not the case simply because of supply and demand. The reason sport athletes are paid so much is because they are able to generate a generous profit. Not only do they meet our demand for pleasure, they also pay higher taxes than the average American, continue to perform risking their health, and they don’t compete as hard when applying for their job.
Posted by: AnonymousThey work hard.
Athletes put in well over 40 hours a week of practice, study, workouts, and game time. They also put their careers on the line each and every time they go to work. How many of us can say something like that? Some can but not many. Now I do believe that there are occupations that are very under-payed like teaching or the army. But both get great benefits which makes up for a lot of the cost of living.
Posted by: AnonymousNo
They are paid as much as they are because of how significant the sports industry is in America. It's really that simple. If you don't like it, stop watching the games and stop buying merchandise.
Posted by: AnonymousNumbers
There are only 450 NBA players in the league. If you take the top 450 doctors, teachers, or engineers in the world, they will get paid a LOT of money too. But there isnt only 450 of them. Pro athletes are rare which is the reasopn for their pay. If there was the top 450 in any career field in th eworld they would be very rare and get paid loads.
Posted by: AnonymousEconomics
Professional athletes are paid so much simply because there is a high demand for good athletes and a low supply. Thus, teams bid with each other to get the best players...
Posted by: THEBOMBNo
They are away from family so much and the risk of injury is so much higher than anything else. By the time they reach their thirties they are considered old and their body aches. All the time they spend on the road is ridiculous. They travel everywhere across the United States every week all year.
Posted by: AnonymousHaters gonna hate
I use to be the guy who would try to bring professional athletes down in my mind because I didn't reach their level and probably won't because I am going to law school lol. In all reality, they are getting paid a whole lot because they are professional athletes, they are also entertainers. If it bothers you so much then become a professional athlete, if you can't then do something else that will make you rich or maybe wealthy. That's how life works. Besides I don't feel as bad laughing at them when they get seriously hurt since they get paid this much
Posted by: Nasrri88What if you were the athlete?
Would you want someone criticizing your paycheck? I rest my case. If you were the athlete i bet you would be happy to make as much money as Tim Tebow or Peyton Manning. That is the point im trying to make!!! Dont criticize the facts. They make what they deserve to get.
Posted by: Gladiator43Where else would it go?
To the owners? Don't say they should donate it..no one in any other profession would be expected to donate their salary. They bring in that revenue, they should be able to keep it. Fact is everyone makes a portion of what they bring in, and suggesting anything else would be communism.
Posted by: AnonymousNo.
The market system works itself out. They're paid that much because they bring in that much and because the market demands that much. If you think they're overpaid, stop buying tickets to sport games and watching them on TV.
Posted by: vinnv226Pro Athletes Are Not Overpaid!
Pro athletes work extremely hard to earn the salaries that they do. Instead we focus on the millions of dollars that they make, rather than the hard-work and practice it takes to get there and succeed. To sum it up the leagues that these athletes play for are billion dollar companies, and the athletes are paid so much because that is how much money they are simply brining in through ticket sales, TV advertisement, and product endorsements.
Posted by: AnonymousNo Athletes are not overpaid.
Athletes are not overpaid at all. I mean as a kid you dream of becoming famous/ professional athlete right. Since a young age these athletes have trained and worked hard to where they are at. And they never stop. They train since a young age and still have to train even when they are professional. They give up a lot of family, social time to train. I do not believe athletes are overpaid.
Posted by: AnonymousNO
Teachers teach the future of kids to later become doctors or leaders, players are just paid alot for entertainment for the public or great talent of the game, they don't teach the future of our young. Athletes should get paid less but still a good amount as they also worked hard for it too for the money
Posted by: AnonymousThey Bring in a lot
They are paid a lot because they bring in so much money.
Posted by: stubsProfessional athletes aren't over payed.
The Big name players make the money at times, they make the merchandise sales for the team, they attract the fans who spend the money on tickets and concession money. They make people watch on T.V and make a lot of money for the team. They may not be saving lives like a police officer or be teaching like a school teacher and they may be entertainers but playing games and putting in the time like they do and the way they play makes them earn their money and I don't think they are over payed.
Posted by: JMAC23It's the way business works
Professional sports are big businesses. Athletes are paid for the money they generate. While it might be absurd when they're signing 80 or 100 million dollar contracts, the bottom line is that they're making their teams, and the league they play in, a lot more money than they're being paid.
Posted by: AnonymousNo
Eventually sports fans like us are responsible for the high salaries sport stars are being paid today. Clubs offer them a lot of money because there are millions of people out there who are willing to pay to watch them play, to buy the merchandise. Besides, they undergo unimaginable stress and exhaustion after intensive sports games. Their hard work makes the money worthwhile.
Posted by: AnonymousWork
These people work their butts off to make sure they stay in top condition so they can play or sing the best they can. They work more than 40 hours a week to be the best at what they do.
Posted by: AnonymousProfessional athletes are not overpaid because their salary is based on performance and that seems fair.
Professional athletes get paid a lot of money, but it's not necessarily a bad thing. These athletes train all year long, on top of playing in their regular season competitions. These players also bring fans into the stadiums and sell more jerseys for the NBA. If an athlete is working that hard and still is able to give a great performance during games, they deserve the money they are paid.
Posted by: D35GeneralIt's about how many people you entertain.
Being an athlete is about entertainment. The more people you entertain, the more you'll make. When your entertaining almost 100 million people, you deserve a lot of pay. If you want to complain about athletes, you should also complain about the pay of Actors... It's all in the industry, They are paid with advertisement, which pays relative to the number of people watching... Either the CEO gets billions of dollars, or it's shared among the players... You deserve to be paid relative to how many people you manage to entertain.
Posted by: donald.kellerObviously NOT. Otherwise they wouldn't be paid that much.
Sports is an entertainment business funded by fans buying tickets and merchandise and advertisers paying tons because it has so many viewers. The business generates tons of revenue. Who is responsible for this more than anyone? The ATHLETE. They should get a decent cut of the revenue. Also top athletes are rare and competing companies (teams) want them badly. They are WORTH that much to whoever is paying them otherwise, they would not pay that amount. Get it?
Posted by: PurpleDrinkThey work hard.
People like singers just make up a silly song and they get millions of dollars when they're sitting down. Professional athletes work hard most of their day. As a player of the team you have to travel. How about their personal life? They don't get a chance to spend time with their own family and relatives, which most athletes really want. That's my reason.
Posted by: AnonymousThink a little.
Even if professional athletes were not paid millions, other professions wouldn't magically get that amount of money. There is not enough money for other professions to be paid that much. They get all they can. The owners of the teams have that money to pay. If the athletes didn't get the money the owner would have a ridiculous amount of money. Why not pay the people millions since they are making owners tons of money?
Posted by: AnonymousNO!
Athletes deserve all of the income that they make. They put most of their lives into the spot that they played. Their hard work deserves even more than what they make right now. I am also an athlete and I put blood, sweat, and tears into my game so that I can have the best season possibly.
Posted by: AnonymousOf Course They Deserve The Money
This is just capitalism, pure and simple. Sports is an entertainment business. The revenue comes from fans who buy tickets, etc. or from advertising companies who pay tons of money to place ads because they know tons of people watch and enjoy the sport. The company (team, league etc.) collects all that money and distributes it to all the janitors, people who build the stadium, managers, coaches, executives, and yes players. The question is, within this business scheme, do the players receive too big of a share of the massive amount of revenue coming in? The answer is no. Top players are rare and other companies (teams) want them very badly so of course you should pay a high price for something that is rare and in high demand. From a moral standpoint, all that money the business generates, who really earns that money? When fans watch the sport, they're mostly there to watch the players.
Posted by: Anonymousoverpaid compared to who
Who are pro athletes over paid in comparison to? They get as much as the market can bear. For example if payton manning is making 10 mill you better believe he is raking in about 20 mill. Professional sports is one of the most lucrative business's in the world.
Posted by: AnonymousTheir work, determination and skill should be rewarded.
These people put everything on the line just so they could have a shot at becoming their dream. The least we can do is support them by paying money to go see them. Even though they get paid in the millions, they deserve it for all the determination and work these men and women have done.
Posted by: AnonymousAbsolutely not too much.
People only see one side of them: Playing a few games and earning millions of dollars.
But actually they worked so hard to get there, only 1 person in 1,000,000 of them can be successful and 1 of 1,000 of the one that is successful can be famous. Plus, being a pro athlete is taking a risk , because you've got to give up a lot of things (Time with family, education, time to rest). The thing is that you could fail and be injured, than you may be a poor people with nothing.Posted by: brianfeng717Career length matters
Pro athletes are paid a lot more than average humans, but there careers are also shorter. In the long run an athlete would make just as much as a average person. Every one thinks that they are over paid because they make a lot of money in a short amount of time.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes are not overpaid
Less than 1% of athletes are professional so they pretty much deserve to get paid good money because they are look at role model to kids and adults so they the money they make they also put their bodies on the line for fans athletes are also used to sell merchandise if teachers and other things were used to sell merchandise they would make the money as professional athletes without professional atheletes there would be a big void in this world
Posted by: AnonymousThey are not overpaid by any means.
Although the law of supply and demand is not an actual law, it elucidates the effect the availability of a product and the aspiration for that product has on price. Supply and demand is the base to any economic understanding. In the United States, we live in a capitalistic society. Under capitalism, a person is paid capital, or a salary, slightly less than the profit that the employer believes he will receive upon hiring the employee. This is factual in any case – including sports. It is often argued that professional athletes are overpaid; however, this is not the case simply because of supply and demand. The reason sport athletes are paid so much is because they are able to generate a generous profit. Not only do they meet our demand for pleasure, they also pay higher taxes than the average American, continue to perform risking their health, and they don’t compete as hard when applying for their job.
Posted by: AnonymousNo
I dont think they are overpaid, i just think other jobs and people are underpaid, and the reason they are not overpaid is because football players, basketball players, etc get payed to pretty much work year round working out, practicing, and dont get much time to see their families. Its tough because when you sign a contract your getting paid to not have a social life outside of football.
Posted by: JhateNO PROBLEM AT ALL
Pro Athletes work harder than anybody else to get where they are at now. Look at pro boxers or football players. They only do that for a good 15-20 years of their life before they are forced to retire, because of blown knees or bad concussions. They take a big risk everyday they do their job. THEY DESERVE IT!
Posted by: AnonymousWe pay part of their salaries when we go to their games.
When a fan buys tickets to an athletic game they are paying a part of their salaries, so if they are overpaid it is our fault. The food, foam fingers and other things you buy also pay the athletes. So if you think athletes are overpaid, and you go to their games you are responsible.
Posted by: williamsundno, because it is just Capitalism at work.
One cannot pick and choose when capitalism applies and does not. Is it fair that people who invest in cigarettes, oil companies and beer companies get rich? Often business does things with profit in mind and does not think about the greater good. I feel if people are mad at athletes who make up a tiny percent of the upper class, it is just ridiculous. People only single them out because the money they make is public and often discussed. Anyway, capitalism is what allows all people in western society to be potentially wealthy and we have to take the good and the bad with any type of economy.
Posted by: Anonymousno
they are not overpaid they deserve the money they make so if the person that wants to pay them that much let them they work hard to make the money so they deserve the money they get they sign a contract to make a lot of money so they deserve the money they make
Posted by: AnonymousPro athletes aren't paid too much.
Pro athletes go out there and play their hearts out with a chance they can get hurt at any second that would end their career. Yeah, I realize soldiers are over sea risking their lives for us and I believe they should get paid a lot too. But right now they're not so I agree with pro athletes' salaries. They might be playing a child's game but you go out there and play against 6 foot 4 inches and 250-pound grown men and I bet you would want a lot of money for that too. I know I would. Also you cannot complain because you are the ones supporting their salaries by buying the tickets and supporting their teams.
Posted by: 2112Injuries
It varies from sport to sport, however in almost every sport they get injured even Ping-Pong. And they need to pay extremely high hospital bills, and also since a lot of them are young, they spend like crazy. If they didnt get paid so much they would be broke on their first paycheck.
Posted by: AnonymousWhy should you control money that is not yours?
If I own a business and I choose to pay my assistant more money than I make in a year, is that wrong? Shouldn't I be able to choose how much each of my employees make and govern my own expenses? The profit that my company generates is my money. These athletes are employees. They are under contract and are paid the amount that the team owners choose. These players are the face of the team and they are the reason, along with the Love of watching, that athletics is such a lucrative business. An employee's salary should be determined by his employer. An athlete is an employee and his salary should be determined by his employer.
Posted by: TWCNRIf athletes were paid less, who would become an athlete?
Athletes LIKE their jobs, and they are playing for their passion, which requires hard work and discipline. If professional athletes aren't paid a lot, most wouldn't try to become a professional, because its human nature to go an easier route. Even if you love, say, football very much, who would go for the NFL if they pay you ten thousand dollars a month? And if no one goes for the NFL, how many more people would be fat? If Kobe Bryant was paid ten thousand dollars a month, would he still be playing basketball?
Posted by: AnonymousNO
They are AMAZING at what they do! not any old person could dedicate themselves like these athletes do. They are constantly away from home and their loved ones, so they deserve rewards for their sacrifices. It is incredible that athletes can keep a great diet, do strenuous workouts, and still manage to spend as much time as they do with their families and friends. Besides, they do this for OUR entertainment.
Posted by: AnonymousBarnabyAlkire
Look in this day and age we pay for entertainment. Right? These athletes have a true gift to play very well at the sports we all love. I know that we think that we are paying them too much, but in reality we aren't paying them enough. Why>? Because imagine, if you will, if we lived in a world that would paid them billions. Think of the motivation they would have to play the sport we all love even better. True? I know so.
Posted by: Anonymousthey have so much talent
They are crazy good. Kobe, Lebron, Melo, and Nash are the best players and they have a ton of skill and Calvin Johnson and every thing like that. I am a major sports fan in the world in basketball and football. Baseball players are way over paid and have no skill.
Posted by: AnonymousHard work
If you look at the wear and tear these people go through just to entertain us, its immense. These individuals risk the rest of their lives, and their sanity, knowing they only have a very short career, all for our entertainment. I'm not saying they deserve 100 million dollar plus contracts, but how many actually have those contracts? Very few. I think the real question should be, are other jobs underpaid? The answer to that question is a resounding, yes.
Posted by: AnonymousThey earn it!
They risk their lives just to commit to the sport they choose. Plus they have the risk of getting hurt. The fans also give most of the money, who love to watch this player or idol of theirs. They should get paid more, if anything.
Posted by: AnonymousDoes your money go elsewhere?
Athletes get paid a fraction of their team's revenue. In your job you get paid a fraction of your company's revenue. If you think half of their money should go elsewhere then I suggest cutting your paycheck in half and sending it elsewhere. Franchises make their own money and do what they please with it, deal with it.
Posted by: AnonymousAthletes are paid a lot, but not overpaid.
The first reason is the difficulty level it is to get to the job. Not everyone can say the have the skill level to become a professional athlete, yet even play at that level. Also, the athletes don't have a long career at all. The average career for an average Major League Baseball player is only 5.6 years, even though most play about 9, its still very short. Plus, they're only a blown knee, or a concussion away from ending it quicker. And lastly, people come to see them for their greatness, and talent that they wish they could have. People pay a lot of money to come to a game. The average price for a Major League Baseball ticket is 27 dollars. I don't see people paying 27 bucks to see and engineer, or a teacher, or even a cop. This is why athletes deserve their salaries and are not overpaid.
Posted by: HollaCityAScuallaAthletes deserve what the fans are willing to pay.
Everybody who is a fan of sports pays the teams. If they don't pay to go see them in person, then they buy the hoodies, shirts, and other merchandise. There is so much money involved, that it is only fair that they get paid as much as they do. If they weren't paid as much as they are, then the owners would be making tons of money, and the players would be getting next to nothing. People say that they're making money playing a child's game, but they're much more serious than that. Also, if a pro athlete gets injured, then they're done playing the game. Most contracts end if they can not play.
Posted by: KeevanAbsolutely not overpaid.
I would like everyone to go through everyone they have known who played sports in their schools growing up. Let me know how many of those people are professional athletes. The amount of people that actually make it to be professional athletes are less than 1%. Those have made it, earned it.
Posted by: AnonymousNo, they're not.
Because out of the athletes that are in college and want to be, say, NBA player, they have a 0.03 percent chance of making it so they should be rewarded with some money. Even if it means they get paid a couple million. They work hard every day to be where they're at. So let's help them out.
Posted by: AnonymousSupply and demand.
It's sickening how much money people shell out for the vicarious thrill of sports entertainment, but if the market can support athletes being paid the ridiculous amount that they receive, then that's just how it works. Yes, the money could be much better spent elsewhere, especially on people who actually have productive jobs, but why should sports industries just give away money to decent causes? If you don't like how athletes are paid, don't pay them. It's that simple. I can rest in peace knowing that not one dime of my money is going to such waste.
Posted by: Anonymousno
they are not overpaid because young people now have somethig to work fowerd to and get off the steets. Young people also now have someone to look up too in their life. Athletes should not get paid any less because they tried their hardest all their too get where they are now.
Posted by: AnonymousNO
the only reason they make so much is because we pay to watch them on tv and at their games. they also put in a lot of work and almost never get to see their families, and most of the money gets donated to charity and other projects. Peyton manning for example when hurricane katrina hit New Orleans he donated millions of dollars to help.
Posted by: Jcole5No. Athletes are not overpaid.
It's not that athletes fault that their paychecks are so high. In a way, it's yours. You are the person that is paying to see them play. You give the money when you buy tickets, jerseys, and the way to expensive food. We are the ones who are willing to give out our money to attend the games in person. Us, as in me and you. Not them. The key word is Willing. Nobody is forcing anybody to hand their money out. You do it by yourself. So why hate on the professional athletes, and complain about how much they get paid when you are helping give them the money yourself??
Posted by: kcchristiansen23No
People work too hard to get their paychecks reduced. The fact that athletes make this much money is a great encouragment for young men and women to stay out of the streets, and live a good life. Most people don't understand that it takes a lot to make it somewhere big and not be a failure.
Posted by: AnonymousPayton Manning!
If Payton Manning had a salary cap then he wouldn't be able to pay for the Payton Manning Children's hospital or any of the other things he has funded to help other people out, but if he doesn't have a salary cap then he will still be able to help other people.
Posted by: AnonymousThe Market Speaks For Itself
In perception, yes. As reality sadly, no. The market dictates. Hard for anyone to say the flip side when they fork over $60 for Madden, $100 for an authentic jersey, pay for DTV NFL Ticket and rush to buy season seats. All of this adds to the pool and the athletes are only getting what their end is. If the owners did not have the funds or desire to pay, they would not be the ones getting in bidding wars when a star athlete becomes a free agent. Yes, it is gross some guy that is good at a children's game is making $20 million and a cop or teachers makes nothing in the same universe, but they provide a service for a product that the masses fork over tons of money to watch.
Posted by: BlaskoThey DO contribute to society
Professional athletes actually bring in money for the local economy. If the Minnesota Twins or Vikings didn't even exist, imagine how many restaurants would lose money from sporting events. Many say teachers are paid was less than athletes (true) which isn't fair, since teachers actually contribute to society. However, people salaries in our society aren't based on if you are doing good for the community. Our society has measured success in a different way. Most people are probably jealous that Kobe makes $258,258.76 bucks per game.
Posted by: AnonymousPro Athletes aren't paid to much
We pay to watch people play sports, so we are supporting their pay. We complain they get paid to much when we support them by watching them play. You can't blame people for not lowering the price for athletes, when every time we go and watch them play we support them. Athletes have a short career, and can get lots of injuries that are very costly. Athletes practice all the time and work hard, for the money they earn. When they aren't playing at home, they don't get to spend a lot of time with their family. Athletes don't get over paid, they get paid just the right amount.
Posted by: ntUnderstanding simple economics
Getting paid millions of dollars to do what some people call “simply hitting a baseball” is not as ludicrous as it may sound. What’s ludicrous is comparing an athletes salary to what these people are calling “those that deserve it.” People such as teachers, firefighters, and doctors. This argument is flawed as it assumes there is just a pile of cash sitting around and it has been unjustly distributed. Sports generate their own income from a multitude of sources, i.E. Television rights, tickets, and merchandising. People pay set prices and the resulting cash flow is in turn distributed equitably among the respective organizations. What on earth would make anyone believe cash generated from a Lebron James jersey would flow out to an elementary school teacher? Teachers in my state are paid from a share of property taxes and other subsidies. To raise their salary would be dependent on raising property taxes. Last year I paid about $3,000 in property tax, lets assume the teacher should be earning 30 million as you say, instead of 30,000 for a “fair” salary. This means my property taxes would have to be raised a thousand fold to 3 million dollars a year. Are we seeing a problem? Oh doctors deserve more because they save lives? Lets examine that one as well. How do you think doctors are paid? Let me answer. It’s from insurance and insurance deductibles or simply out of pocket if you have none. If doctors were paid 30 million/year your insurance premiums, which are already high would be raised to about a million dollars per year. An average co-pay to see your doctor for a cold would cost you about $90,000. With bills like that you’d need a break and would gladly pay 50 bucks for a day out at the old ballpark.
Posted by: icemanimalThey are paid too much but for a reason.
Professional athletes are very much over paid, but there is a reason why. Everyone who pays to go see these athletes play and buy team gear, they are supporting paying these players so much to where their money ends up going to the athletes. I don't agree with them making millions a year but people should not hate it since they work just as hard as anyone else and they are paid through your money.
Posted by: AnonymousNo
I believe athletes are 100% not over paid. Billions of people watch professional athletes all the time. They also buy their jerseys, hats, and other products. Many people who think they're overpaid think they're job is so easy. If it's so easy then how about you try to become a professional athlete.
Posted by: AnonymousNO
They train hard work hard and are rewarded for it. They are rewarded for having talent as are most professions. The money they recieve comes from people watching the games buying the jerseys, chair, cups and other products. Not just anybody can do the sport if you think so try playing in an actual professional game and see how well you do,
Posted by: VIC132deserve
the athletes simply deserve the money because first of all they work hard throughout their entire life trying their best and practicing to be somewhat decent and then the have to pay lots of money to get a special coach and they need to travel to be able to try out and have people judge and maybe approve if they are lucky enough. so they really work hard for the money and btw, not all of them get millions, some get 120,000 a year(pretty much all of them). so they actually deserve the money since so many people wanna pay to be able to watch them and be entertained.
Posted by: AnonyThey work hard for what they earn.
They work hard for what they earn. Most of them deserve to get paid higher amounts because of the simple fact that they give back to their community. They also do charity events and visit other countries and/or states to spend time with their fans. To me, their money is deserving of them.
Posted by: AnonymousNo
As a mother of a (hopefully) NHL Hockey player, I have to say that some people just dont realize the sacrifices these kids make from the time they are very young to make it in this profession.Their families give up a great deal as well, many hours and money spent traveling to distant locations for games, many hours spent on special coaching, gym memberships and time away from their grinds All to just HAVE A CHANCE to play professionally! If they have talent and make the cut, they deserve the contracts they are given. If you think they are overpaid, you should have a beef with the team owners that dish out the contracts, not the players because they accept them!
Posted by: Hockeymom12They sacrifice their bodies for the entertainment of millions of people who if placing bets could be making money off of them.
They sacrifice their bodies for the entertainment of millions of people who, if placing bets, could be making money off of them. It usually seems to be people who wanted to be athletes but never made or people who don't play sports at all who assume athletes are overpaid. Yes, firefighters and policemen should be paid more, teachers included, but its not the professional athlete's fault that the vast majority of the nation is willing to pay billions of dollars a year to see them on the field, court, or mound.
Posted by: AnonymousThey Are Professionals
Professional athletes have a special talent that only some could possibly have. Meaning they have the right to get paid so much. People think they are getting overpaid yet they spend tons of money to watch them. Keep spending so much money on them and they will keep making so much more than you! The ones that believe they are overpaid are the ones that wish they had the same talent, because i guarantee if they were the athlete getting the money they would be thinking differently (:
Posted by: Anonymousthey are not overpaid.
Professional athletes get paid an obscene amount of money to do what they do. Or at least, they do if they’re good, and if they play the right sport. (Sorry, professional indoor lacrosse players.) But in addition to getting paid to play, many of them also get paid to endorse a variety of products and services. And in some cases, these endorsements are worth a lot more than what they make on the field.
Today we’re counting down the 50 highest paid athletes in the world, presenting what they made in salaries, bonuses, winnings, and endorsements from July 2011 to July 2012.
So what’s the breakdown of this list? Well, here you go:
8% NFL players (14)
16% MLB players (8)
14% NBA players (7)
14% Auto racers (7)
8% Soccer players (4)
6% Tennis players (3)
6% Golfers (3)
6% Boxers (3)
2% Cricket players (1)Posted by: AnonymousNo, think about education.
I remember back when I was in high school, my chemistry teacher an argument that I thought was reasonable and fair as to why professional athletes don't really deserve all those millions. What would happen to all of us if we got rid of all professional sports? Nothing, professional sports do not and should not play a role in improving humanity. However, what would happen to all of us if we got rid of all teachers and professors? Then, the world would get dumber and eventually technology and medicine will gradually fade away taking us all the way back to the caveman era.
I believe instructors from all academic backgrounds should be making those millions.Posted by: AnonymousIt's not your money
If I own a business and I choose to pay my assistant more money than I make in a year, is that wrong? Shouldn't I be able to choose how much each of my employees make and govern my own expenses? The profit that my company generates is my money. These athletes are employees. They are under contract and are paid the amount that the team owners choose. These players are the face of the team and they are the reason, along with the Love of watching, that athletics is such a lucrative business. An employee's salary should be determined by his employer. An athlete is an employee and his salary should be determined by his employer.
Posted by: AnonymousYes
Yes, they are paid way too much for what they really do. The ugly truth is that it is all our fault because we are the fans who support them and would do everything just to have a picture with them. The truth is we have been idolizing these athletes and therefore paying them ridiculous amounts of money. It is not fair for someone that wakes up at 5 a.m. in the morning to take a bus and go to work and then return home at 9 p.m. and still be paid less than someone who kicks some ball.
Posted by: Anonymousno
Even though they make millions of dollars, I think that they should make that money. I am a little on both ends but for the most part they make money and usually they donate some of it to charities. Is it the athletes fault that the government is in debt? No it is not and those athletes get taxed alot anyways. I do think that players like Drew Brees make way too much, but other than no. No athlete should make more than 10 million a year but I am not saying have them get paid $20/hour like the average person. I think that 1 million per year is the cap and the minimum is 100,000 for the NBA, NFL, MLB, and all the other big leagues out there.
Posted by: AnonymousWorth Every Penny
It's not anyone's business how much athletes make to begin with. Also, they do earn their salaries. Athletes generates billions of dollars of revenue and are great for their cities economies, they draw people to bars and hotels to watch them, and sell tons of merchandise. Few athletes make multi-million dollar salaries anyway,the ones that do are by far the best in the world at their sports. To compare athletes to people who work at mediocre jobs like teaching is absurd. Teaching takes only a four year degree, no special talent, skill, intelligence, there's millions of them. Sports are very demanding, athletes sacrifice so much to improve their skills most start when they are very young. Tiger Woods started golfing at two and works harder than any teacher could imagine. Athletes are worth every penny.
Posted by: AnonymousSupply and demand
Athletes are paid based on supply and demand. This is how free enterprise works. Unlike a police officer or a teachers salaries which are based off of working budget, ie taxes. Also you have to look at how many pro athletes there are versus say police officers. Not very many. But remember, athletes don't pay themselves, they are offered a salary by the owners. Or look at it this way, the next time your boss wants to give you a raise, kindly decline it. You probably are making enough money anyway.
Posted by: AnonymousNope, not at all.
These guys are only getting what they are bringing in and nothing more. Let's take football for example. You have a 53 man roster, plus say about 7 to 10 coaches. On top of all that is the owner (who is already a billionaire himself) of the team. Now, an NFL team can easily rake in billions of dollars in a season. If you were to divide it evenly amongst everyone that is listed (hypothetically of course) each would get over $150 million dollars (the highest contracts aren't actually nearly that high). So, why do they get so much? Because there are so few of them and so much of the money. It's easy to explain to the people on the other side of this argument about why the people they think should get paid more for their services don't make that kind of money. Teachers can't get paid that because they don't bring in money and there are so many more of them. Little, to no profit + many employees = not getting paid much. Same goes for the many in our military. Firefighters, don't actually work that often either. They rarely and I mean rarely see action these days due to advancements in fire prevention in buildings. You can hate them all they want because they use their physical talents for our entertainment but it's never fair to say someone makes too much for what they choose to do with their lives. You may not find it important but many others do in some shape or form.
Posted by: AnonymousYou all are just jealous.
Our teachers dont do the best jobs. Look at our country's rating for education. Also, people chose their careers. They're not forced to do it so why enter a career then complain about salary? They know their salary before they begin. Also, athletes bring in a lot of money to their teams and the teams just share the profit with them. Why arn't actors and entertainers being harrased? They get paid due to what they bring in. They bring in millions then get paid millions. Police bring their money in by giving out speeding tickets to innocent people or tickets for no seat belts. They don't do anything spectacular. Athletes do amazing things in their sport that no one else in the world can do. I bet any athlete could become a cop or teacher, its simple. And the whole army thing, those soldiers know they are putting their lives on the line for a low salary before they enter the force so if they dont agree with the terms then why enlist? Athletes deserve the money they make.
Posted by: Anonymous