Cristiano Ronaldo beats Messi to become highest paid sport star of 2024

• Image Credit: Google

• May 17, 2024 | Guriya Khatun

Kylian Mbappe and his compatriot Karim Benzema alongside Neymar Jr. of Brazil are the other three footballers who are a part of the top ten highest-paid athletes.

Digital Desk: Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes' list of highest-paid athletes, marking the fourth time in his esteemed career.

The latest release from Forbes indicates that Ronaldo's earnings have reached $260 million, a significant increase from $136 million the previous year.

Spanish golfer Jon Rahm has risen to the second position, earning $218 million, largely attributed to his involvement with the Saudi-funded LIV Golf tour.

Argentinian football icon Lionel Messi secures the third spot with earnings totaling $135 million over the past year.

Joining them in the top ten are French footballers Kylian Mbappe and Karim Benzema, along with Brazilian star Neymar Jr.

Kylian Mbappe and his compatriot Karim Benzema alongside Neymar Jr. of Brazil are the other three footballers who are a part of the top ten highest-paid athletes.

Forbes' list of the world's highest-paid athletes (2024)

1.    Cristiano Ronaldo, football: $260m (£205m)

2.    Jon Rahm, golf: $218m (£172m)

3.    Lionel Messi, football: $135m (£107m)

4.     LeBron James, basketball: $128.2m (£101m)

5.    Giannis Antetokounmpo, basketball: $111m (£88m)

6.    Kylian Mbappe, football: $110m (£87m)

7.    Neymar, football: $108m (£85m)

8.    Karim Benzema, football: $106m (£84m)

9.    Stephen Curry, basketball: $102m (£80m)

10.  Lamar Jackson, American football: $100.5m (£79m)

Following his decision to join the Saudi football club Al Nassr for the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo's wealth experienced a significant surge. The Portuguese player has committed to a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Saudi team, securing an impressive €200 million (A$315 million) annually. Al Nassr's acquisition of Ronaldo was celebrated as a historic milestone for the club. Ronaldo has seamlessly integrated into the Saudi Pro League, establishing himself as a standout performer. 

Leading the league's goal-scoring charts for the 2023-24 season, the veteran footballer continues to excel at 39 years old. He remains an indispensable figure in Portugal's national team, led by head coach Roberto Martinez, as they prepare for the upcoming Euros 2024. 

It's worth highlighting Ronaldo's previous success in guiding Portugal to victory in the 2016