Cristiano Ronaldo named highest-paid athlete, earns nearly double Lionel Messi

Ronaldo raked in $261 million over the past 12 months, mainly from his lucrative contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. His contract extension in June increased his salary to $662,000 per day, making the 40-year-old football superstar the highest-paid athlete on the planet, according to The Sun.

Lionel Messi is third with $136 million, just 52% of Ronaldo’s income. The Inter Miami captain may no longer be at his career peak, but he remains a global brand name. His earnings outside of football, from major advertising deals, even surpassed his salary.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Ronaldo’s fortune is estimated at $1 billion, while Messi has $850 million.

Cristiano Ronaldo (L) and Lionel Messi during an El Classico match between Real Madrid and Barcelona in 2014. Photo by Real Madrid CF

Football dominates the top 10, with five players featured. Karim Benzema, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner, is eighth with $106 million, mostly from his big contract at Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad. At 37, the French striker still enjoys top salary thanks to the Saudi Pro League’s heavy investment.

Neymar is seventh with $108 million. The Brazilian star earned a high salary at Al Hilal, despite limited playing time due to injuries. He has returned to his former club Santos in Brazil this summer, but his Saudi contract was enough to secure him a spot in the top 10.

The youngest athlete on the list is Kylian Mbappe, ranking sixth with $110 million. Following his move to Real Madrid, the 26-year-old striker earned a significant signing bonus alongside several advertising contracts. His income is expected to rise as he reaches his career peak.

Basketball claims the second-most spots, with LeBron James earning $129 million, Giannis Antetokounmpo $111 million and Stephen Curry $102 million. Spanish golfer Jon Rahm takes second place overall with $219 million. He was selected as an image ambassador for Saudi Arabia due to the country’s recent investment in golf. Rounding out the list is American football quarterback Lamar Jackson at $101 million.