By Kwame Bediako
Cristiano Ronaldo has once again topped the Forbes list of the world’s highest‑earning athletes, finishing first for the fourth consecutive year and the sixth time in his career, matching basketball legend Michael Jordan’s record.
The 41‑year‑old Al‑Nassr striker earned an estimated $300 million over the past 12 months, combining his football salary, endorsement deals, and income from other business ventures.
Record earnings and achievements
Ronaldo’s latest honour comes after he led Al‑Nassr to the Saudi Pro League title for the first time since joining the club three seasons ago, scoring twice in a 4–1 win over DAMAC Club to secure the trophy. This marks Al‑Nassr’s 20th league title and adds a major domestic crown to Ronaldo’s already packed trophy cabinet.
World Cup and career context
The Forbes release coincides with the buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Ronaldo is set to represent Portugal in Group K alongside Uzbekistan, Colombia and DR Congo, aiming for what could be his sixth World Cup appearance.
Ronaldo first topped the Forbes list back in 2016 and 2017 while at Real Madrid, and his sustained commercial power makes him the most consistently high‑earning athlete in the modern era, although Tiger Woods still holds the all‑time record for most consecutive years at number one (2002–2013).
