Cristiano Ronaldo’s earnings reached an estimated $300 million over the past 12 months, more than double Lionel Messi’s $140 million, according to Forbes’ 2026 athlete income ranking.
Forbes placed Ronaldo first among the world’s highest-paid athletes for a fourth consecutive year. It is estimated that the Portugal and Al Nassr forward received $235 million from on-field income and $65 million from endorsements and other commercial activities.
Messi ranked third overall. Forbes attributed $70 million to the Argentina and Inter Miami CF forward’s on-field income and another $70 million to endorsements and business agreements.
The MLS Players Association salary guide lists Messi’s 2026 base salary at $25 million and his guaranteed Major League Soccer compensation at $28.33 million. That figure excludes separate revenue-sharing arrangements with league partners, including Adidas and Apple TV.
Ronaldo extended his contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr in June 2025. The confirmed agreement runs through 2027, although the club did not publicly disclose its complete financial terms.
Inter Miami confirmed in October 2025 that Messi had extended his contract through the end of the 2028 MLS season.
Published estimates for both players vary because some calculations combine guaranteed salary, bonuses, image rights, sponsorships and potential commercial benefits.
Read: Messi-Ronaldo Team-Up Would Test Any Manager, Analyst Says
Claims that Ronaldo has already accumulated $675 million from Al Nassr and Messi between $210 million and $240 million in Miami cannot be verified through official club disclosures.
