Lionel Messi was named the highest-paid sportsperson in over 2022. Forbes recently released its annual list of highest-paid Athletes in 2022. Argentina footballer was ranked ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo. The most followed athlete Ronaldo, however, was ranked third. The Paris Saint Germain forward has earned $75 Million from On-field earnings. However, the other $55 Million are his off-field earnings. Forbes list evaluates for a period of 12 months ending on May 1, 2022. The on-field earnings include salaries, bonuses, and prize money. On the other hand, off-field earnings include licensing income, appearance fees, and sponsorship deals.
Lakers forward Lebron James stood second with $121.2 Million. this is the record earning for an NBA player in a year. Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo ranked third, he earned $115 Million in the last year. The only other footballer on the list was Brazil’s Neymar who stood third at $95 Million.
The next two spots were occupied by Basketball players Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant with an income of $92.8 and $92.1 Million respectively. In addition, Roger Federer became the only Tennis player on the list, he earned a massive $90 Million from other sources, while only $0.7 Million of on-field earnings. Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez($90 Million) ranked 8th. While the last two spots went to American Football player Tom Brady ($83.9 Million) and Greek basketballer Giannis Antetokounmpo ($80.9 Million).
Top 10 Highest Paid Sportsperson in 2022
| Athlete | On-field earnings | Off-field earnings | Total earnings |
| Lionel Messi | $75 Million | $55 Million | $130 Million |
| Lebron James | $41.2 Million | $80 Million | $121.2 Million |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | $60 Million | $55 Million | $115 Million |
| Neymar | $70 Million | $25 Million | $95 Million |
| Stephen Curry | $45.8 Million | $47 Million | $92.8 Million |
| Kevin Durant | $42.1 Million | $50 Million | $92.1 Million |
| Roger Federer | $0.7 Million | $90 Million | $90.7 Million |
| Canelo Alvarez | $85 Million | $5 Million | $90 Million |
| Tom Brandy | $31.9 Million | $52 Million | $83.9 Million |
| Giannis Antetokounmpo | $39.9 Million | $41 Million | $80.9 Million |
