Forbes: Cristiano Ronaldo Tops List of Highest-Paid Athletes After Saudi Move

According to Forbes, Cristiano Ronaldo has become the world’s highest-paid athlete after his move to Saudi Arabia, with Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe following closely behind.

Ronaldo signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Al Hilal, earning a reported $136 million, with an estimated annual playing salary of $75 million.

Messi earned a combined $130 million, while Mbappe earned $120 million.

Other athletes on the list include LeBron James, Canelo Alvarez, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and retired tennis player Roger Federer.

Forbes’ earnings figures include on-field earnings such as prize money, salaries, and bonuses, as well as off-field earnings from sponsorship deals, appearance fees, licensing income, and businesses operated by the athletes.

Forbes’ top 10 highest-paid athletes

1. Cristiano Ronaldo ($136 million)
2. Lionel Messi ($130 million)
3. Kylian Mbappe ($120 million)
4. LeBron James ($119.5 million)
5. Canelo Alvarez ($110 million)
6. Dustin Johnson ($107 million)
7. Phil Mickelson ($106 million)
8. Stephen Curry ($100.4 million)
9. Kevin Durant ($89.1 million)
10. Roger Federer ($95.1 million)