Cristiano Ronaldo Tops World's Highest-Earning Athletes in 2026

For the fourth consecutive year, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the highest-earning athlete globally, according to Forbes' 2026 rankings. The Portuguese star amassed total earnings of £223 million over the past 12 months, maintaining his dominance in both commercial and sporting fields despite being 41 years old.

Ronaldo has topped Forbes' list six times in the last 11 years and has held the number one spot since surpassing his longtime rival Lionel Messi in 2023. The figures reveal that the Al Nassr captain earned approximately $300 million before taxes and agent fees, matching the historic record set by boxer Floyd Mayweather in 2015.

The majority of Ronaldo's income, £175 million, came from his lucrative contract with Al Nassr, while an additional £48 million was generated through endorsements, sponsorships, and various business ventures. His earnings increased by £19 million compared to 2025.

Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez ranked second with total earnings of £126 million, trailing Ronaldo by £97 million. Most of Alvarez's income derived from his fights, including his victory over Caleb Plant and subsequent loss to Terence Crawford.

Lionel Messi secured third place with £104 million in earnings, making him the only other footballer among the top ten alongside Ronaldo. American basketball star LeBron James was fourth with £103 million.

Japanese baseball player Shohei Ohtani ranked fifth with £95 million, followed by basketball star Stephen Curry in sixth place with £93 million.

Golfer Jon Rahm was seventh with £80 million, while French footballer Karim Benzema and basketball player Kevin Durant tied for eighth and ninth places respectively, each earning £77 million and £77 million. British Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton completed the top ten with £74 million.

According to Forbes, the average age of the top ten athletes is 37 years, the highest in the history of the list. Three athletes—Ronaldo, LeBron James, and Lewis Hamilton—are all 41 years old.

The rankings also featured notable names outside the top ten, including Kylian Mbappé at 12th place with £71 million, Erling Haaland at 19th with £60 million, Carlos Alcaraz at 32nd with £46 million, and Jannik Sinner at 50th with £41 million.