After making a move to play for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, the 38-year-old, Cristiano Ronaldo breaks yet another World record to beat Lionel Messi.
Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese football sensation, has once again dethroned his long-time rival Lionel Messi, securing the title of the world’s highest-paid athlete for the third time.
This remarkable feat not only cements Ronaldo’s status as a football legend but also earns him a place in the prestigious Guinness World Records.
In the period leading up to May 1, 2023, Ronaldo’s earnings reached an astonishing $136 million. This impressive figure surpasses Lionel Messi’s earnings of $130 million, which had previously crowned him as the highest-paid athlete in 2022.
It is worth noting that Forbes calculates athletes’ earnings based on data collected from industry experts, salary databases, and news reports.
These calculations encompass both on-field and off-field earnings, On-field earnings include salaries, bonuses, and prize money, while off-field earnings encompass sponsorship deals, appearance fees, licensing revenues, and income from business ventures.
Ronaldo’s income comprises $46 million from his on-field performances, including salaries, prizes, and bonuses, while his off-field earnings amount to a staggering $90 million.
Ronaldo’s off-pitch earnings eclipse his on-pitch gains, thanks to his lifetime contract with Nike and his successful CR7 brand merchandise. The Portuguese star’s popularity transcends the football field, with fans eager to purchase his branded products, adding to his already substantial wealth.
Ronaldo’s remarkable rise to the top of the earnings ladder can be attributed, in part, to his move to Saudi Arabian team Al Nassr. In January 2023, Ronaldo signed a lucrative contract that nearly doubled his salary, reaching an estimated $75 million. This move propelled him to surpass Messi and claim the highest-paid athlete title.
As Ronaldo continues to dominate the field, he has made the decision to remain with Al-Nassr for the upcoming season. The impact of his presence in the Saudi Pro League has been significant, attracting more international star players and increasing the league’s global appeal.
Ronaldo’s commitment to the league signifies a new chapter in his illustrious career, where he seeks fresh challenges and further opportunities to showcase his remarkable skills.
ALSO READ: Mystery Solved? Alleged Photo of Cristiano Junior’s True Mother Emerges Online
