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Focus on the Rise of Golf and Surprise Moves:
Big money moves in both football and golf are shaking up the world of athlete earnings, according to the latest Forbes list. Here’s a look at who’s raking in the most dough:
Ronaldo Retains the Crown (with a Hefty Raise):
Cristiano Ronaldo (39) remains the king of the castle, topping the Forbes list for the fourth time! His move to Saudi club Al Nassr boosted his on-field earnings to a whopping $200 million, making him the highest-paid footballer ever. Combined with his massive social media following (629 million!), his off-field earnings add another $60 million for a record-breaking total of $260 million.
LIV Golf Shakes Up the Game:
Spanish golfer Jon Rahm (29) is the biggest mover on the list, skyrocketing to second place after his controversial switch to the Saudi-backed LIV Golf series. While details of his contract haven’t been confirmed, media reports suggest a guaranteed payout of at least $300 million! He joins Ronaldo as the only athlete to crack the $200 million mark.
Messi, LeBron & the Rest:
Lionel Messi (3rd, $135 million) rounds out the top three after his lucrative move to MLS side Inter Miami. LeBron James (4th, $128.2 million) remains a force despite nearing the end of his career, with a potential final shot at the Olympics on the horizon. Rounding out the top five is Giannis Antetokounmpo (5th, $111 million).
Surprises and Shakeups:
Kylian Mbappe (6th, $110 million) is expected to join Real Madrid after a record-breaking stint with PSG. Neymar (7th, $108 million) lands surprisingly high despite missing most of the season with an injury. The rise of football in Saudi Arabia is evident with former PSG stars Mbappe and Neymar joining the league, with Benzema (8th, $106 million) also making a move there.
The Other Sports:
Stephen Curry (9th, $102 million) is the lone NBA representative outside the top 5. Lamar Jackson (10th, $100.5 million) remains the lone NFL player on the list thanks to his recent contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens.
This list highlights the ever-changing landscape of athlete earnings, with big moves in both traditional and emerging sports impacting the top earners.
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