Who was Forbes’ highest-paid football player in 2013?

Cristiano Ronaldo was Forbes’ highest-paid football player in 2013.

Forbes estimated Ronaldo’s total earnings at about $80 million for the period used in its 2013 athlete ranking. His income combined his Real Madrid salary and bonuses with substantial endorsement agreements, including his long-running relationship with Nike and other international brands.

Lionel Messi was another dominant earner in the period, but Ronaldo ranked ahead of him in Forbes’ overall football earnings comparison. Ronaldo’s worldwide profile, goalscoring record and commercial reach made him one of the sport’s most marketable players.

Forbes’ football figures are estimates and can include salary, bonuses, sponsorships and licensing revenue. They are not the same as a player’s transfer fee, club valuation or lifetime career income. Rankings also change depending on the exact twelve-month period selected.