Portuguese international Cristiano Ronaldo has maintained his position as the highest-paid athlete for the fourth time in his career.
Ronaldo topped the list again this year following his move to Saudi Arabian football club Al Nassr. The 39-year-old forward earned $260 million (£205 million) over the past 12 months, a significant increase from the previous year’s $136 million (£108.7 million).
According to Forbes, golfer Jon Rahm is now second on the list. Ronaldo’s long-time rival Lionel Messi has dropped to third place behind Rahm. The Spanish golfer’s earnings soared to $218 million (£172 million) after his move to the Saudi-funded LIV Golf tour.
Footballers Neymar and Karim Benzema also made it into the top 10 after their transfers to the Saudi Pro League.
Basketball stars LeBron James (fourth), Giannis Antetokounmpo (fifth), and Stephen Curry (ninth) are featured on the list, along with American football quarterback Lamar Jackson, who is in 10th spot.
Forbes reported that the world’s 10 highest-paid athletes collectively earned $1.38 billion (£1.06 billion) before taxes and agents’ fees over the past year, marking the highest total ever recorded.
