Final answer:
Stephen Curry was ranked as the 11th most popular active athlete in the world by ESPN in 2017, based on factors like fan following and marketability. He is also among the highest-paid athletes in the NBA, earning around $43 million per year.
Step-by-step explanation:
ESPN ranked Stephen Curry, a Golden State Warriors guard, as the 11th most popular active athlete in the world as of 2017. This ranking is based on factors such as fan following, social media presence, and marketability. Curry's popularity can be attributed to his exceptional basketball skills, his three-point shooting abilities, and his success in the NBA.
Curry's popularity is further reflected in his high earnings. He is one of the highest-paid athletes in the NBA, earning around $43 million per year. This exceptional income places him among the top earners in the field of professional basketball.
It's important to note that popularity and earnings can fluctuate over time, as they are influenced by factors such as player performance, endorsements, and overall market trends.