Footballer Lionel Messi

Footballer Lionel Messi world's highest paid athlete

Messi earned $US130 million, a figure which includes $US55 million of endorsements, during the 12-month period ended May 1, 2022, to sit atop the list of the 10 highest-paid athletes a year after finishing second to Irish MMA fighter Conor McGregor.

Los Angeles Lakers forward James was next on the list after bringing home a combined $US121 million, shattering the $US96.5 million record for an NBA player that he set last year, while Portugal captain Ronaldo earned $US115 million to sit third.