Cristiano Ronaldo tops Forbes list of highest-paid footballers

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the world’s highest-paid footballer for the 2026/27 season, according to the latest Forbes rankings. The Al Nassr forward is estimated to earn approximately $300 million, marking the fourth consecutive year he has held the top position and the 12th time in 13 years that he and Lionel Messi have occupied the top two spots.

Ronaldo’s income is heavily driven by his contract with Al Nassr, contributing roughly $250 million from on-field activities, supplemented by $50 million from off-field commercial ventures and endorsements. In contrast, Lionel Messi, playing for Inter Miami, follows in second place with estimated earnings of $145 million, with a more even split between football wages ($70 million) and commercial deals ($75 million).

Kylian Mbappé of Real Madrid ranks third with $100 million. Other notable players in the top ten include Erling Haaland ($85 million), Vinícius Júnior ($76 million), and 19-year-old Lamine Yamal ($55 million). The top ten athletes are projected to earn a combined total of approximately $839 million.