Toba Owojaiye reporting
In the realm of football’s financial elites, Cristiano Ronaldo reigns supreme in 2023, per Forbes report. With earnings that surpass renowned stars like Lionel Messi and Neymar over the past year, Ronaldo occupies the pinnacle of the football wealth pyramid.
Forbes disclosed that Ronaldo not only rules the football world but is also the highest-paid athlete across all sports, boasting an estimated total income of $260 million. This feat can be attributed to his $200 million contract with Saudi Arabian outfit Al Nassr, following his transition from Manchester United in January. Beyond the pitch, Ronaldo’s endorsement deals, featuring brands like Nike and Jacob & Co, contribute an additional $60 million to his annual income.
Lionel Messi takes the runner-up position on this prestigious list, accumulating expected earnings of $135 million, largely driven by his move to MLS side Inter Miami. Messi’s inclusion marks a milestone as the first MLS player to grace the top 10 since David Beckham in 2012.
Completing the podium is Brazilian forward Neymar, whose total earnings tally up to $112 million. His switch to Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, which transpired in August, significantly bolsters his financial standing.
Forbes’ list demonstrates the burgeoning influence of the Saudi Pro League, with four players from the league making it to the top 11 highest earners globally, including Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mané. Impressively, these four players collectively rake in more than half of the $995 million amassed by all 11 individuals on the rich list.
Further down the rankings, Kylian Mbappé closely trails Neymar, securing the fifth position with a total income of $110 million.
In the Premier League, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland emerges as the highest-paid player, outearning the likes of Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah and his teammate Kevin De Bruyne.
Forbes’ meticulous calculations encompass both on-field earnings, encompassing prizes, salaries, and bonuses, and off-field earnings, which encompass estimates of sponsorship deals, appearance fees, licensing income, and profits from personal business ventures.
Forbes’ Top 11 Highest-Paid Footballers in 2023:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo ($260 million)
2. Lionel Messi ($135 million)
3. Neymar ($112 million)
4. Kylian Mbappé ($110 million)
5. Karim Benzema ($106 million)
6. Erling Haaland ($58 million)
7. Mohamed Salah ($53 million)
8. Sadio Mané ($52 million)
9. Kevin De Bruyne ($39 million)
10. Harry Kane ($36 million)
11. Robert Lewandowski ($34 million)
