Cristiano Ronaldo kicks out Lionel Messi to become the highest-paid athlete in the world

Cristiano Ronaldo earned a whopping $136 million in 2023 as per Forbes.

Cristiano Ronaldo kicks out Lionel Messi to become the highest-paid athlete in the world

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. ( Source: Football Express)

Forbes announced their popular list of the world’s highest-paid athletes of 2023 on Friday and interestingly, Cristiano Ronaldo topped the rankings this year, earning himself the renowned Guinness World Record title for the highest annual earning for an athlete.

According to Forbes, Ronaldo is estimated to have amassed a staggering income of $136 million in 2023. Last year, his arch-rival, Lionel Messi, was at the top of the list of the highest-paid athlete with an estimated income of a whopping $130 million.

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In January 2023, after leaving Manchester United with his underperforming stint on mutual consent with the club, Ronaldo signed for the Saudi Arabia side, Al – Nassr, he received a whopping wage of $75 million.

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Ronaldo’s record-breaking salary comprises about $46 million in field earnings which includes the salaries and tournament prize money. He also earns about $90 million in brand deals, endorsements, and other income sources. Nike, the multinational sportswear company, has signed a lifetime – partnership with its own brand. He also gets a lot of money from his CR7 merchandise and goods.

The second and third positions in the list are also two world-renowned footballers only. Lionel Messi is in the second position in the rankings with a whopping worth of $130 million and in the third position, Kylian Mbappe has a net annual income of $120 million.

Cristiano Ronaldo decides to stay at Al – Nassar this season

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Cristiano Ronaldo at Al – Nassar. ( Source: CNN)

The 37-year-old forward is still breaking records even after achieving unparalleled glory in Europe. Ronaldo wants to continue his career at Al Nassr in the upcoming season. The ripple effect has been seen worldwide after Ronaldo’s entry into the Saudi Pro League as now more and more players are signing to the SPL contenders. It is believed that in the coming years, the popularity and net worth of the Saudi pro league will be much more, due to the involvement of more international star footballers.

As of now, there is no report of Ronaldo signing or in talks with any new club. He takes pride in his decision of joining the Saudi Pro League. Cristiano also stated that his work in Europe is “done” after winning every club and individual trophy for the major clubs in Europe. At Al – Nassr, Ronaldo is back to training camp after the break and he is working hard, and is better than ever for his new quest with more challenges.

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The Portuguese Football icon is still dominating the field and scoring goals in the Saudi Pro League. Football fans and pundits are eagerly waiting for the new season to begin as they want to see Cristiano Ronaldo keep on scoring more goals and breaking records as he continues to be on top of his game.

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