Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the world’s highest-paid athlete for 2024, surpassing his longtime rival Lionel Messi, who dropped to third place, according to a newly released report.
Figures published by The Sun, citing data from bestbettingsitesoffers.co.uk, revealed that Ronaldo earned an estimated £192.4 million ($260 million) over the past year.
The amount is more than double Messi’s reported income of £99.9 million ($135 million), underscoring the financial dominance of the Al Nassr forward.
This achievement marks the second consecutive year Ronaldo has topped the rankings, following his first-place finish on Forbes’ 2023 list.
Despite turning 40, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner remains one of football’s most marketable names, combining sporting longevity with unrivaled commercial appeal.
Spanish golfer Jon Rahm secured second place with earnings of £161.32 million ($218 million). Meanwhile, Messi, despite slipping to third, continues to generate massive income off the pitch.
The Argentine is one of only two athletes in the top 10 whose endorsement and commercial deals outweigh their playing salary, reflecting his enduring global popularity and commercial strength, even after moving to Major League Soccer.
The report also emphasized the growing influence of footballers in the global sports economy. Stars like Kylian Mbappé (6th – $110m), Neymar (7th – $108m), and Karim Benzema (8th – $106m) all made the list, highlighting the financial impact of major investments, particularly from the Saudi Pro League, which has become home to several high-profile signings.
Basketball’s biggest names also featured prominently. LeBron James ranked fourth with total earnings of $128.2m, while Stephen Curry came in ninth at $102m.
The NBA’s global reach continues to secure its stars multi-million-dollar endorsement deals alongside their contracts.
Rounding out the top 10 is NFL quarterback Lamar Jackson, who earned $100m in 2024 after a landmark year in his career.
His inclusion further illustrates the expanding commercial value of American football internationally.
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