Cristiano Ronaldo beats Floyd Mayweather to become the highest paid athlete in the world

Cristiano Ronaldo has become the top earning athlete in the world after making £61million last year alone beating long-term leader Floyd Mayweather Jnr into first place. The retired boxer, who fought just once within the last 12 months, earned £30million.

Ronaldo struck a £38.5million-a-year salary with Spanish giants Real Madrid. Plus his endorsement deals with Nike, watchmaker Tag Heuer and nutrition supplements group Herbalife were worth £22million.

His football rival Lionel Messi is second on the list raking in £56million within the last year.