Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have topped Forbes' list of highest-paid footballers, with Ronaldo earning $285 million and Messi $135 million annually. This highlights their continued financial success despite nearing the end of their careers, showcasing their impact both on and off the field.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have topped Forbes’ list of the highest-paid footballers, reaffirming their status as two of the greatest players in the sport's history. Despite nearing the end of their careers, both athletes continue to reap substantial financial rewards.
Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr, leads the rankings with an impressive annual income of $285 million. This total includes $220 million from his Al Nassr wages and additional earnings from sponsorships. Messi, representing Inter Miami, is the only Major League Soccer (MLS) player among the top ten, earning a total of $135 million, which comprises $60 million in wages and $75 million from off-field sponsorship deals.
The list also highlights the increasing financial power of the Saudi Arabian league, with players like Neymar ($110 million), Karim Benzema ($104 million), and Sadio Mane ($52 million) making significant appearances. Other notable mentions include Kylian Mbappé ($90 million) and Vinicius Junior ($55 million) from LaLiga, along with Premier League stars Erling Haaland ($60 million), Mohamed Salah ($53 million), and Kevin De Bruyne ($39 million).
The dominance of Ronaldo and Messi at this stage of their careers showcases not only their exceptional talent on the field but also their business acumen and marketability off the pitch, ensuring their financial legacies continue to grow.
