(Reuters) – Cristiano Ronaldo has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes for the fourth time in his career. Spanish golfer Jon Rahm has also made significant strides, moving up to second place following his sensational switch to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf.
Ronaldo’s Record Earnings
Ronaldo, after joining Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, became the world’s highest-paid athlete. Forbes estimates his total earnings at around $260 million, setting a new record for a soccer player. His on-field earnings amount to $200 million, while his off-field earnings total $60 million, bolstered by sponsorship deals leveraging his 629 million Instagram followers.
Rahm’s Big Move to LIV Golf
Twice major winner Jon Rahm joined LIV Golf in December, a move that shook the sport. Reports suggest that the current world number five secured at least $300 million. Rahm has earned $218 million so far, joining Ronaldo as the only two athletes to surpass $200 million in earnings this year.
Messi’s Major League Soccer Success
Lionel Messi, the record eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, ranks third with $135 million. His switch to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami has proven lucrative. Messi’s earnings include $65 million on-field and $70 million off-field, thanks to sponsorships with Adidas and Apple.
LeBron James and NBA Stars
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is fourth on the list with $128.2 million. The 39-year-old, the first NBA player to score 40,000 career points, aims for one last Olympic appearance. Fellow NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks rounds out the top five with $111 million.
Other Notable Athletes
France soccer captain Kylian Mbappe, who plans to leave Paris St Germain and likely join Real Madrid, ranks sixth with $110 million. Neymar, despite missing much of the season due to a torn ACL, is seventh with $108 million after moving to the Saudi Pro League’s Al-Hilal. French striker Karim Benzema, another Saudi Pro League signee, is eighth with $106 million. Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry follows with $102 million, and Lamar Jackson, the only NFL player on the list, is tenth with $100.5 million, thanks to his new contract with the Baltimore Ravens.
