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.

During the 12-month period ending May 1, 2021 McGregor earned $250 million, a figure which includes $220 million from endorsements and the recent sale of the majority stake of his whiskey brand, Forbes said.

Barcelona and Argentina forward Messi was second on the list and set a record as the highest-earning football player after bringing home $181 million while Portugal and Juventus forward Ronaldo earned $168 million to sit third among the top 10 highest-paid athletes.