Cristiano Ronaldo tops Forbes' list of highest paid athletes

Cristiano Ronaldo leads Forbes’ list of highest paid athletes for yet another time in his career making it his fourth achievement of this sort.

After his move to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, Ronaldo became the world's highest-paid athlete. The 39-year-old's estimated total earnings were in the region of $260 million, as per Forbes, which is an all-time high for a footballer, according to Reuters.

While Cristiano Ronaldo’s off-field earnings were $60 million, his on-field earnings added up to $200 million. This is also because of the sponsorship deals where brands make use of his 629 million Instagram followers.

Despite nearly entering his 40s, Ronaldo said on Wednesday he intends to continue his football career "at a high level”.

On the other hand, Spanish golfer Jon Rahm moved up to second in the Forbes’ list following his sensational switch to Saudi-backed LIV Golf

Rahm has earned $218 million and joins Ronaldo as the only two athletes to earn over $200 million, apart from the guarantee.

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi, ranks third on the Forbes’ list. Helping himself earn $135 million, Messi made a lucrative switch to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami.

Moreover, Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is fourth on the Forbes’ list at $128.2 million.