Cristiano Ronaldo beats Messi to become Highest-Paid Athlete of 2024

Portugal and Al Nassr superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has once again cemented his status as the highest-paid athlete in the world for 2024, surpassing long-time rival Lionel Messi. According to recent reports, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner earned a staggering $260 million in 2024, placing him miles ahead of other elite athletes.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking Earnings in 2024

The 40-year-old football icon continues to enjoy a lucrative career in the Saudi Pro League, where he plays for Al Nassr. His massive salary and performance-based bonuses accounted for $215 million of his total earnings. In addition, off-the-field endorsements with major brands brought in another $45 million, securing his top spot.

With this, Ronaldo significantly outpaced Lionel Messi, who ranked fourth on the list with $135 million in total earnings.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Future at Al Nassr

Earlier in 2024, speculation arose regarding Ronaldo’s potential departure from Al Nassr for a new challenge. However, recent reports indicate that the Portuguese forward is likely to extend his contract until June 2026, solidifying his place in the Saudi Pro League for at least two more seasons.

Since making a sensational move to Al Nassr in December 2022, Ronaldo has made 91 appearances, scoring 82 goals and registering 19 assists. His prolific performances also helped him become the first footballer to surpass 900 career goals in official matches.

How Other Football Stars Ranked

While Ronaldo topped the list, Lionel Messi secured the fourth spot with $135 million, largely earned through his MLS contract with Inter Miami and endorsement deals with Adidas, Apple, and other global brands.

Neymar, who has struggled with injuries at Al Hilal, landed in sixth place with $133 million. The Brazilian forward recently returned to his boyhood club Santos to regain fitness.

Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe also made the top 10. Benzema, who moved to Al Ittihad after winning the Ballon d’Or with Real Madrid, ranked eighth with $116 million, while Mbappe, who is set for a blockbuster switch from Paris Saint-Germain to LaLiga, secured ninth place with $110 million.

Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes in 2024

1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Football) – $260 million
2. Stephen Curry (Basketball) – $153.8 million
3. Tyson Fury (Boxing) – $147 million
4. Lionel Messi (Football) – $135 million
5. LeBron James (Basketball) – $133.2 million
6. Neymar (Football) – $133 million
7. Oleksandr Usyk (Boxing) – $122 million
8. Karim Benzema (Football) – $116 million
9. Kylian Mbappe (Football) – $110 million
10. Jon Rahm (Golf) – $105.8 million

SportsLigue