The list of highest-paid athletes was released on Thursday and for the fourth time in a row, Portuguese international Cristiano Ronaldo topped it, according to Forbes.
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Earnings: $260 Million in a Single Year and add highest-paid athletes list
This time, the 39-year-old Al-Nasr star topped the list with around $260 million as he left Manchester United to join the Saudi Pro League, which he joined last year. This figure is the highest ever for a football player. ESPN reported that the Al-Nasr striker earned $200 million from football while his deals with brands helped him earn $60 million.
Jon Rahm Takes Second Place After Joining LIV Golf
After Cristiano Ronaldo, famous Spanish golfer Jon Rahm was second on the list to move to LIV Golf. Jon Rahm made big money joining LIV Golf last year as the two-time major winner’s move brought in at least $300 million. His move to the Saudi-backed golf league made headlines with such a huge sum. Also, the 29-year-old professional golfer earned $218 million while joining the Nasr star.
Lionel Messi Secures Third with Inter Miami FC Move
In third place was eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, who moved to Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami FC in a $135 million deal. The 36-year-old Argentine’s on-field earnings were estimated at $65 million, with an estimated $70 million from commercial contracts.
LeBron James, Yannis Antetokounmpo, and Kylian Mbappe Round Out the Top Six
Other names include Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James in fourth place with $128.2 million, another NBA player Yannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks in fifth place with $111 million and French captain Kylian Mbappe with $110 million. Together are on the sixth position.
Ronaldo’s Continued Dominance in Earnings and Career Plans
Ronaldo said a day earlier that he intends to continue his football career at a “high level” despite being almost 40 years old.
Breakdown of Earnings: On-Field and Commercial Revenue
Ronaldo’s record-breaking earnings include $200 million from football and $60 million from commercial deals, showcasing his dominance both on and off the field.
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