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Cristiano Ronaldo becomes highest-paid athlete in the world

Cristiano Ronaldo has once again become the highest-paid athlete in the world according to Forbes.

This is the first time he has topped the list since 2017, thanks to his move to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.

Forbes has reported that Ronaldo earned a staggering $136 million over the past 12 months, making him the highest-paid athlete in the world.

He surpassed Lionel Messi, the Argentina captain who earned $130 million over the same period, to take the top spot.

Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr is said to be worth over €200 million per year, making him the highest-paid footballer in the world.

Ronaldo’s success on the field, coupled with his brand endorsements and other off-field earnings, have catapulted him back to the top of the Forbes list.

His status as one of the most marketable athletes in the world has helped him secure a number of lucrative deals with major brands such as Nike, Herbalife, and Clear.

The Forbes top 10 highest-paid athletes also includes basketball star LeBron James, boxer Canelo Alvarez, and golfer Phil Mickelson.

Dustin Johnson, another golfer, also made the top 10, thanks to his participation in the controversial Saudi-funded LIV Golf Invitational Series.

Forbes’ methodology for calculating athlete earnings includes both on-field and off-field earnings.

On-field earnings include salaries, bonuses, and prize money, while off-field earnings include sponsorship deals, appearance fees, and licensing and memorabilia income.

World’s top 10 highest paid athletes 2023

1. Cristiano Ronaldo, football: $136m (£108.7m)

2. Lionel Messi, football: $130m (£103.9m)

3. Kylian Mbappe, football: $120m (£95.9m)

4. LeBron James, basketball: $119.5m (£95.5m)

5. Canelo Alvarez, boxing: $110m (£87.9m)

6. Dustin Johnson, golf: $107m (£85.5m)

7. Phil Mickelson, golf: $106m (£84.7m)

8. Stephen Curry, basketball: $100.4m (£80.2m)

9. Roger Federer, tennis: $95.1m (£76m)

10. Kevin Durant, basketball: $89.1m (£71.2m)

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