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This marks the fourth time in his illustrious career that the Portuguese superstar has topped this list, driven largely by his $200 million annual salary from Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.
The 39-year-old continues to excel on the field, leading the league with 33 goals and earning multiple Player of the Month honours.
Off the field, Ronaldo’s value remains immense, boasting partnerships with brands like Binance, Nike, and Herbalife, among others.
Close behind Ronaldo is Lionel Messi, whose move to Inter Miami has been transformative both for the club and Major League Soccer.
Messi’s total earnings reached $135 million, with $70 million coming from endorsements with giants like Adidas and Apple.
His impact on the pitch has been equally significant, setting records and driving Inter Miami’s valuation to over $1 billion.
Despite Ronaldo out-earning Messi, the debate over who is the greatest footballer of all time remains as contentious as ever, with both players continuing to break new ground in their storied careers.
Other notable footballers on the list include Neymar and Karim Benzema, both of whom have made lucrative moves to the Saudi Pro League.
Neymar’s $108 million earnings include significant perks such as a private jet and luxury cars, despite an injury-plagued season.
Benzema, with $106 million in earnings, has faced health challenges but remains a prominent figure in the league.
Kylian Mbappé also features prominently, earning $110 million as he prepares for a highly anticipated move to Real Madrid. His time at Paris Saint-Germain has been marked by domestic success but European frustration, failing to secure a Champions League title.
This year’s list underscores the global financial dominance of football’s elite players, with Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar, Mbappé, and Benzema collectively amassing nearly $719 million.
Forbes’ List of World’s 10 highest-paid athletes in 2024:
#1 Cristiano Ronaldo – $260M
Nationality: Portugal | Sport: Soccer | Age: 39
#2 Jon Rahm – $218M
Nationality: Spain | Sport: Golf | Age: 29
#3 Lionel Messi – $135M
Nationality: Argentina | Sport: Soccer | Age: 36
#4 LeBron James – $128.2M
Nationality: United States | Sport: Basketball | Age: 39
#5 Giannis Antetokounmpo – $111M
Nationality: Greece | Sport: Basketball | Age: 29
#6 Kylian Mbappé – $110M
Nationality: France | Sport: Soccer | Age: 25
#7 Neymar – $108M
Nationality: Brazil | Sport: Soccer | Age: 32
#8 Karim Benzema – $106M
Nationality: France | Sport: Soccer | Age: 36
#9 Stephen Curry – $102M
Nationality: United States | Sport: Basketball | Age: 36
#10 Lamar Jackson – $100.5M
Nationality: United States | Sport: Football | Age: 27
Source:
Forbes
