Cristiano Ronaldo created history and once again managed to cement his place in record books as his latest achievement has got everyone talking in town.The Portuguese superstar has been named as the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes.

He has achieved the milestone for three consecutive years in a row and recorded his fifth time overall in his decorated career.Following his blockbuster move to Saudi Arabia, where he joined Al Nassr, his total earnings now stand at a mind-boggling $275 million.According to media reports, the 40-year-old also increased his income by $15 million, courtesy of his off-the-field endorsements and sponsorship deals. His social media followers, which stand at 939 million as of this date, are also added to that.Forbes' list of the top-earning athletes includes 10 who have surpassed $101 million. The list also includes three NBA stars and an NFL quarterback, in addition to Ronaldo.Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry is in second place with earnings of $156 million.Boxer Tyson Fury reached the third spot with $146 million.Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott stands at fourth with $137 million.But Argentine Lionel Messi dropped to fifth place with $135 million. After his move to the USA, the diminutive Argentine has benefited from profile endorsements like Adidas and Apple.Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James was behind Messi, in sixth place with $133.8 million.MLB New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto, French striker Karim Benzema, and Japanese Shohei Ohtani are in ninth place with $102.5 million and NBA Phoenix Suns' Kevin Durant rounds off the top 10 with $101.4 million.

Cristiano Ronaldo Leaves Lionel Messi Behind in Elusive Highest-Paid Athletes List

This table shows exactly how Ronaldo has maintained his dominance in sports and business as well, thus reaffirming his status as a global icon and phenomenon.