Ronaldo tops Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes again

KATHMANDU: Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has secured the top spot as the highest-earning athlete according to Forbes.

Ronaldo, consistently maintaining his position as one of the wealthiest athletes, has topped the list for the fourth consecutive time.

Ronaldo, who joined Saudi club Al-Nassr in 2022 for a record-breaking deal, has reportedly inked a new agreement lasting until 2025.

According to Forbes, the 39-year-old Portuguese forward has amassed a staggering $260 million in earnings over the past 12 months, solidifying his dominance in the sports world.

Following closely behind Ronaldo is golf sensation Jon Rahm, who clinched the second position in the rankings.

In another highlight, football icon Lionel Messi claims the third spot on the Forbes list. Despite facing uncertainties after moving to Saudi Arabia’s league, Messi has managed to secure his financial standing, earning $218 million in the last year.

Meanwhile, footballers Neymar and Karim Benzema have also made their mark by entering the top 10 list of highest-earning athletes after joining the Saudi Pro League.

The rankings also feature basketball superstar LeBron James in fourth place, with Greek basketball player Giannis Antetokounmpo securing the fifth position.

Forbes reports that the world’s top 10 highest-earning athletes have collectively earned an astonishing $1.38 billion over the past year, setting a new record in athlete earnings.

Top 10 highest-earning athletes & their annual incomes

1. Cristiano Ronaldo, Football ($260 million)
2. Jon Rahm, Golf ($128 million)
3. Lionel Messi, Football ($135 million)
4. LeBron James, Basketball ($128.2 million)
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Basketball ($111 million)
6. Kylian Mbappe, Football ($110 million)
7. Neymar, Football ($108 million)
8. Karim Benzema, Football ($106 million)
9. Stephen Curry, Basketball ($102 million)
10. Lamar Jackson, American Football ($100.5 million)