With 2023 around the corner, we take a look at the highest-paid athletes in 2022. Check it out!
The past year was an eventual one for many sportsman as they signed new brand deals and moved to new clubs.
In the football world, Lionel Messi had the most eventful year as he won the 2022 FIFA World Cup while also earning more than any rival in the game.
According to Forbes, the 35-year-old walked away with $130 million (R2.2 billion) in 2022, making him the highest paid athlete as things stand.
Cristiano Ronaldo featured in the list as he came third with a annual salary of $115 million (R1.9 billion) based off his earnings on the pitch and off it.
Here are the three footballers who featured on the list
The 37-year-old is likely to leap ahead of the Argentine in 2023 when he signs his record breaking deal with Al Nassr which is believed to be worth R1.2 billion.
Unsurprisingly, the list was dominated by basketball players from the United States with Lebron James and Kevin Durant featuring.
Here is the full list of highest paid sportsmen.
1. Lionel Messi - Ligue 1 - PSG/Argentina - $130 million
2. LeBron James - NBA - LA Lakers - $121.2 million
3. Cristiano Ronaldo - football - Portugal - $115 million
4. Neymar - Ligue 1 - PSG/Brazil - $95 million
5. Steph Curry - NBA - Golden State Warriors - $92.8 million
6. Kevin Durant - NBA - Brooklyn Nets - $92.1 million
7. Roger Federer - tennis - Switzerland - $90.7 million
8. Canelo Alvarez - boxing - Mexico - $90 million
9. Tom Brady - NFL - Tampa Bay Buccaneers - $83.9 million
10. Giannis Antetokounmpo - NBA - Milwaukee Bucks - $80.9 million
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