Cristiano Ronaldo Tops Forbes’ List of World’s 10 Highest-Paid Athletes in 2024, Surpassing Lionel Messi.
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again asserted his financial dominance in the sports world, securing the top spot on Forbes’ list of the world’s highest-paid athletes for 2024. According to Soccernet.football, the Portuguese superstar has amassed an astonishing $260 million in earnings, marking the fourth time he has achieved this remarkable feat in his illustrious career.
Ronaldo’s impressive earnings are largely attributed to his $200 million annual salary from Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League. At 39, Ronaldo continues to excel on the field, leading the league with 33 goals and earning multiple Player of the Month honors. His on-field prowess is matched by his off-field financial acumen, with lucrative endorsements from high-profile brands such as Binance, Nike, and Herbalife contributing significantly to his income.
Trailing Ronaldo is Lionel Messi, whose recent move to Inter Miami has had a transformative impact on both the club and Major League Soccer. Messi’s total earnings reached $135 million, bolstered by $70 million from endorsements with global giants like Adidas and Apple. On the pitch, Messi has set new records and propelled Inter Miami’s valuation to over $1 billion, underscoring his immense influence in the sport.
Despite Ronaldo out-earning Messi, the debate over the greatest footballer of all time remains fiercely contested. Both players continue to break new ground in their storied careers, captivating fans and analysts alike with their extraordinary talents and achievements.
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Other notable footballers featured on Forbes’ list include Neymar and Karim Benzema, both of whom have secured lucrative contracts with Saudi Pro League clubs. Neymar’s $108 million earnings come with significant perks, including a private jet and luxury cars, despite his season being marred by injuries. Benzema, earning $106 million, has faced health challenges but remains a key figure in the league.
Kylian Mbappé also stands out, earning $110 million as he prepares for a highly anticipated move to Real Madrid. His tenure at Paris Saint-Germain has been marked by domestic success but has fallen short in European competitions, particularly the elusive Champions League title.
This year’s list highlights the financial supremacy of football’s elite players, with Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar, Mbappé, and Benzema collectively earning nearly $719 million. Their staggering incomes reflect not only their exceptional talents but also their significant commercial appeal and marketability.
Here is a breakdown of Forbes’ 2024 list of the world’s highest-paid athletes:
- Cristiano Ronaldo – $260M
- Nationality: Portugal
- Sport: Soccer
- Age: 39
- Jon Rahm – $218M
- Nationality: Spain
- Sport: Golf
- Age: 29
- Lionel Messi – $135M
- Nationality: Argentina
- Sport: Soccer
- Age: 36
- LeBron James – $128.2M
- Nationality: United States
- Sport: Basketball
- Age: 39
- Giannis Antetokounmpo – $111M
- Nationality: Greece
- Sport: Basketball
- Age: 29
- Kylian Mbappé – $110M
- Nationality: France
- Sport: Soccer
- Age: 25
- Neymar – $108M
- Nationality: Brazil
- Sport: Soccer
- Age: 32
- Karim Benzema – $106M
- Nationality: France
- Sport: Soccer
- Age: 36
- Stephen Curry – $102M
- Nationality: United States
- Sport: Basketball
- Age: 36
- Lamar Jackson – $100.5M
- Nationality: United States
- Sport: Football
- Age: 27
Cristiano Ronaldo’s reign at the top of Forbes’ highest-paid athletes list underscores his enduring appeal and exceptional marketability. As the sports world continues to evolve, these athletes not only captivate fans with their performances but also dominate financially, reflecting their unparalleled influence both on and off the field.
