According to Forbes, Cristiano Ronaldo, the captain of the Portugal national team, has emerged as the highest-earning footballer worldwide in 2023.
Ronaldo, currently plying his trade for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, outpaced Lionel Messi and Neymar in earnings over the past year.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also holds the distinction of being the highest-paid athlete across all sports.
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At 38 years of age, Ronaldo secured the top spot on the list with an estimated total income of $260 million.
Ronaldo’s contract with Al Nassr is believed to be valued at $200 million, while his endorsements are estimated to bring in an additional $60 million annually.
His long-standing rival, Lionel Messi, occupies the second position with projected total earnings of $135 million.
Completing the top three is Brazilian forward Neymar, with a total earnings figure of $112 million.