ICYMI: Ronaldo, Messi, Neymar lead 2024 world’s highest-paid footballers

Cristiano Ronaldo leads the list of the world’s highest-paid footballers in 2024, with total earnings of $285 million, according to Forbes.

This was disclosed by Forbes on Thursday, revealing that Ronaldo earns $220 million on the field and $65 million from off-field activities, including brand partnerships and his own businesses.

Four players from the Saudi Pro League now rank among the world’s 10 highest-paid soccer players, counting both their on-field salaries this season and their annual earnings from endorsements, memorabilia and other business endeavors.

England’s Premier League claims only three spots while Spain’s La Liga nabs two and Lionel Messi gives the US Major League Soccer its lone representative.

Ronaldo’s global appeal is evident, with a social media following exceeding 900 million across Instagram, Facebook, and X.

His recent foray into YouTube has also been a success, quickly surpassing 1 million subscribers and accumulating over 544 million views.

Lionel Messi ranks second with $135 million in earnings, comprising $60 million from his play with Inter Miami and $75 million from endorsements.

The 37-year-old Argentine, fresh off leading his country to another Copa América title, is central to Inter Miami’s success, helping the team achieve an MLS-best 71 points ahead of the playoffs. He is under contract with the club through 2025, with an option for 2026.

Full list of the top 10 highest-paid footballers in 2024.

Cristiano Ronaldo – $285 million

Age: 39
Club: Al Nassr
On-Field Earnings: $220 million
Off-Field Earnings: $65 million
Highlights: Ronaldo remains the most followed athlete globally, with over 900 million followers on social media. He recently launched a YouTube channel that surpassed 1 million subscribers in just 90 minutes, amassing over 544 million views.

Lionel Messi – $135 million

Age: 37
Club: Inter Miami
On-Field Earnings: $60 million
Off-Field Earnings: $75 million
Highlights: After leading Argentina to another Copa América title, Messi has played a crucial role in Inter Miami’s success. His contracts extend through 2025, with an option for 2026.

Neymar – $110 million

Age: 32
Club: Al Hilal
On-Field Earnings: $80 million
Off-Field Earnings: $30 million
Highlights: Despite injury setbacks, Neymar remains a marketing powerhouse, promoting brands like Puma to his 225 million Instagram followers.

Karim Benzema – $104 million

Age: 36
Club: Al Ittihad
On-Field Earnings: $100 million
Off-Field Earnings: $4 million
Highlights: Benzema has returned to form with seven goals in six matches this season after struggling with injuries last season.

Kylian Mbappé – $90 million

Age: 25
Club: Real Madrid
On-Field Earnings: $70 million
Off-Field Earnings: $20 million
Highlights: After joining Real Madrid, Mbappé is also dealing with a legal dispute with Paris Saint-Germain over unpaid wages, which amounts to about $60 million.

Erling Haaland – $60 million

Age: 24
Club: Manchester City
On-Field Earnings: $46 million
Off-Field Earnings: $14 million
Highlights: Haaland has won major trophies with Manchester City, though Norway has struggled in international competition.

Vinícius Júnior – $55 million

Age: 24
Club: Real Madrid
On-Field Earnings: $40 million
Off-Field Earnings: $15 million
Highlights: A newcomer to the earnings list, Vinícius has secured partnerships with brands like PlayStation and Pepsi.

Mohamed Salah – $53 million

Age: 32
Club: Liverpool
On-Field Earnings: $35 million
Off-Field Earnings: $18 million
Highlights: Salah’s influence extends to the Middle East and North Africa, making him a valuable ambassador for global brands.

Sadio Mané – $52 million

Age: 32
Club: Al Nassr
On-Field Earnings: $48 million
Off-Field Earnings: $4 million
Highlights: Mané is known for his philanthropic contributions in Senegal, funding infrastructure projects and supporting his community.

Kevin De Bruyne – $39 million

Age: 33
Club: Manchester City
On-Field Earnings: $35 million
Off-Field Earnings: $4 million
Highlights: De Bruyne has turned down lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, choosing to stay in Manchester with his family.

Forbes noted that the ranking considers on-field earnings (salaries, bonuses, and club image rights) and off-field earnings (endorsements, licensing, and businesses). Figures are based on databases like Capology.com and industry insights, converted to USD using current exchange rates.

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