Cristiano Ronaldo is set to leapfrog long-term rival Lionel Messi as the highest-paid football player in the world, according to Forbes.
Following his move back to Manchester United, the Portuguese superstar is forecast to earn $125 million before taxes this season — with $70 million coming from his salary and bonuses alone.
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Messi, meanwhile, is set to earn $110 million in the 2021-22 season, making him the second-highest earner in the game.
The 34-year-old joined Paris Saint-Germain from Barcelona this year and is anticipated to earn more than Ronaldo in terms of salary — $75 million
But Ronaldo — who is the most popular athlete on social media with more than 500 million followers across Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, according to Forbes — brings in $55 million in endorsements compared to Messi’s $35 million.
Messi’s PSG teammates Neymar and Kylian Mbappe sit third and fourth on the list, with the duo expected to earn $95 million and $43 million respectively.
Neymar, who recently signed a four-year extension, is expected to earn more than Ronaldo in terms of on-field earnings ($75 million) but has nowhere near the same pulling power when it comes to endorsements, forecast to bring in $20 million.
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