From Lionel Messi to Stephen Curry: Top 5 Forbes’ richest athletes of 2022

Lionel Messi

Argentina captain Lionel Messi tops the elusive list. The superstar footballer has total earnings of $130 million (On-Field Earnings: $75 million and the rest from off-field earnings). The Paris Saint-Germain forward continues to be one of the most-talked-about, searched, and a fan-favourite despite his career taking a downward spiral in recent times. 

(Photograph:AFP)

LeBron James

LeBron James follows suit. Nicknamed "King James" and regarded as one of the all-time greats, the LA Lakers player is in the second position with total earnings of $121.2 million. The veteran's popularity remains intact and he continues to make the headlines to date.

(Photograph:AFP)

Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portugal captain and Manchester United striker, occupies the third spot in the top five. His total earnings are a whopping $115 million as the 37-year-old remains a superstar on and off the field, despite some inconsistency in form. His on-field earnings are $60 million whereas his off-field earnings read $55 million.

(Photograph:AFP)

Neymar

Neymar, the forward for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazil national team, is in the fourth position. His total earnings have been a mammoth $95 million in 2022. 

(Photograph:AFP)

Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry takes the fifth spot, ending above the likes of Roger Federer, Tom Brady and Conor McGregor (he was the top-earning athlete last year but became a notable absentee from the top ten this time around). 

Curry, the American basketballer who plays for the Golden State Warriors, has total earnings of $92.8 million.

(Photograph:AFP)