Cristiano Ronaldo Tops Forbes Football Earnings List, Outpacing Lionel Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again set a remarkable record in the world of sports finance, earning over twice as much as his closest rival, Lionel Messi, in the past year. According to the latest figures from Forbes, Ronaldo's earnings have catapulted him to the top of the football earnings list, with a staggering £218 million ($285 million) amassed in just twelve months. This substantial income not only secures his position as the highest-earning footballer globally but also reflects the increasing financial might of the Saudi Pro League, where he currently plays for Al-Nassr.
A Look at Ronaldo's Earnings Breakdown
Ronaldo's financial success can largely be attributed to his lucrative contract with Al-Nassr, which is reported to be worth £170 million ($220 million) annually. This massive deal forms the backbone of his earnings, but it's not the only source of his income. The 39-year-old forward has also generated an impressive £49 million ($65 million) from various commercial deals, showcasing his prowess in brand partnerships and endorsements.
This latest financial windfall marks a new personal best for Ronaldo, surpassing his previous record of £199 million ($260 million). Notably, the only individual to have earned more than Ronaldo in a single year is former boxing champion Floyd Mayweather, who holds the record for the highest annual earnings across all sports
Messi's Earnings: A Distant Second
In contrast, Lionel Messi's earnings, while still impressive, fall significantly short of Ronaldo's. The Argentine superstar, now playing for Inter Miami, brought in £103 million ($135 million) over the same period. Messi does, however, excel in off-field ventures, raking in £57 million ($75 million) from endorsements and commercial activities, which keeps him competitive in certain areas.
The Rise of Saudi Football
The dominance of Saudi-based players in the top echelons of football earnings is becoming increasingly apparent. Following Ronaldo and Messi, other stars from the Saudi Pro League also feature prominently on the Forbes list. Brazilian forward Neymar, who plays for Al-Hilal, earned £84 million ($110 million), while French striker Karim Benzema from Al-Ittihad amassed £79 million ($104 million). Senegalese winger Sadio Mane, also from Al-Nassr, rounded out the Saudi contingent with earnings of £40 million ($52 million).
This shift in the football landscape highlights the financial investments made by Saudi clubs, aiming to attract top-tier talent and elevate the profile of the league on the international stage.
Changing Dynamics of Football Earnings
The traditional stronghold of La Liga on the highest-earning footballers list has been challenged in recent years. Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. are the only players from Spain who appear in the top ten, reflecting a broader trend of talent dispersal across various leagues. The Premier League remains robust, represented by Manchester City striker Erling Haaland (£45 million/$60 million), his teammate Kevin De Bruyne, and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah.
Implications for Ronaldo's Career
Ronaldo's current contract with Al-Nassr is set to expire in 2025. However, given his exceptional form and the financial incentives available, it is anticipated that he will sign an extension to continue his career in the Middle East. His commitment to playing at a high level even at the age of 39 serves as an inspiration to many and underscores his dedication to the sport.
A Broader Perspective on Sports Earnings
Ronaldo's record earnings not only underscore his personal achievements but also reflect the evolving landscape of sports finance. The influx of money from new leagues, particularly in regions like the Middle East, is changing how player contracts and endorsements are structured.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s unparalleled earnings demonstrate his sustained impact on the football world, both on and off the pitch. As he continues to break records, his rivalry with Messi remains a defining narrative in sports history. With the increasing influence of leagues like the Saudi Pro League, the future of football finance appears set for further evolution, and Ronaldo stands at the forefront of this transformation
Dnewshub editor
Tags
SPORTS