‘My man chase money’- Fans react as Cristiano Ronaldo becomes highest-paid athlete of 2023

(Source- twitter)

Cristiano Ronaldo has topped Forbes’ list of the world’s most-paid sportsmen for the first time since 2017 and the third time overall, earning himself a Guinness World Records title for the greatest yearly earnings for an athlete in 2023. Ronaldo is expected to earn a stunning $136 million in 2023, according to Forbes. Last year, his arch-rival Lionel Messi topped the list of the highest-paid athletes, earning an estimated $130 million.

After leaving Manchester United by mutual agreement in January 2023, Ronaldo signed for the Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, where he got a huge salary of $75 million. The 37-year-old’s record-breaking pay is $46 million in field earnings, which includes salary and tournament prize money. He also makes around $90 million through brand partnerships, sponsorships, and other sources of revenue. Nike, the international sportswear corporation, has entered into a long-term agreement with its own brand. He also profits a lot from his CR7 merchandise.

Cristiano Ronaldo breaking records at 37

Even after unprecedented success in Europe, the 37-year-old forward is still shattering records. Ronaldo intends to continue his career at Al Nassr in the future season. Following Ronaldo’s admission into the Saudi Pro League, there has been a worldwide ripple effect, with more and more players joining SPL competitors. The popularity and net worth of the Saudi pro league are expected to skyrocket in the future years as more international star footballers join the league.

As of yet, there is no indication that Ronaldo has signed or is in discussions with a new team. He is pleased with his decision to join the Saudi Pro League. He also remarked that his career in Europe is “done” after winning every club and individual trophy for the continent’s top clubs. CR7 has returned to Al Nassr training camp after the break, and he is working hard to be better than ever for his new quest with greater obstacles.

Messi came in second with $130 million, divided evenly between on-field earnings of $65 million and off-field earnings of $65 million. Mbappé’s on-field earnings of $100 million add significantly to his total of $120 million. LeBron James, in fourth place, set a record for the highest annual earnings for a basketball player in 2023 with $119 million ($44.5 M on-court earnings; $75 M off-court).

Here’s how fans reacted

Give him paid D’or

— SHE-KO-NI (@Messiin99) July 14, 2023

GOAT

— Tom (@Tomlongbottom_) July 14, 2023

my idolo wasn't in the MLS at 35. GOAT.

— lin (@sheloveslin) July 14, 2023

https://twitter.com/charlie_1249/status/1679868603586281472?s=20

No amount of money could ever change the outcome of who truly is the goat of this era. Cool records tho😅

— TheFCBArmy (@FCBArmy1) July 14, 2023

He has one the most impressive records to be honest: he played at 5 world cups and managed to register 0 knockout goals and assists 🐐 for a reason

— 🦜, (@pedrakis) July 14, 2023

https://twitter.com/Meandmyself017/status/1679870609545916416?s=20