In a recent revelation of the highest-paid athletes for the year 2023, familiar names from the world of football dominated the top spots.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the renowned star of Al Nassr, secured the coveted first position, while Lionel Messi, a celebrated icon of Inter Miami, clinched the third spot. The rankings, provided by Sportico, showcased golf sensation Jon Rahm claiming the second spot.
Ronaldo, who had previously topped the list, continued his reign as the highest-paid athlete. His move to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Nassr in January 2023, following his departure from Manchester United, drove him to the pinnacle of financial success.
Benefiting from a record-breaking salary in Saudi Arabia, Ronaldo’s total earnings amounted to a staggering $275 million. His Al-Nassr salary alone accounted for $215 million, supplemented by an additional $60 million from sponsorships and his immensely popular Instagram page boasting 620 million followers.
While Messi’s decision to join Inter Miami instead of Al Hilal with a staggering $1.5 billion contract may have cost him the title, he still amassed a considerable fortune, earning $130 million in 2023. This figure was bolstered by his salaries from Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, increased by lucrative sponsorship deals.