"Ronaldo, 40, who on June signed a new two-year deal with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr, is projected to claim $280 million in total earnings over the coming year before taxes and agents' fees. The Portugal captain, who recently declared he has no plans to retire as he is "still producing good things," will earn $230m from Al Nassr during the 2025-26 season plus $50m in off-field earnings."
"Inter Miami's Lionel Messi is the only MLS representative on the list and is a distant second to Ronaldo. The Argentina captain's projected total income for 2025 is $130 million, with a whopping $70m coming from off-field earnings. Messi, 38, has endorsement deals with Adidas, Lay's and Mastercard, among others. Yamal, who inherited Barcelona's iconic No. 10 shirt once worn by Messi, is the first 18-year-old to enter Forbes' soccer list in its 22-year history."
Cristiano Ronaldo tops the 2025-26 earnings list with projected pre-tax income of $280 million, including $230m from Al Nassr and $50m off-field. Lionel Messi ranks second with $130m total, $70m from endorsements such as Adidas, Lay's and Mastercard. Karim Benzema is third with around $100m on the pitch and about $4m off it. Barcelona's Lamine Yamal becomes the first 18-year-old to enter the top-10, signing a 10-year Barcelona contract and expected to earn $43m. Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah are among other high earners driven by club pay and sponsorships.
Read at ESPN.com
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