Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has surpassed his longtime rival Lionel Messi to become the highest-earning player in the world, according to Forbes.

Forbes recently released its annual list of the world’s highest-paid athletes, and Ronaldo claimed the top spot with estimated earnings of $120 million. Meanwhile, Messi, who had held the title for the past four years, dropped to second place with earnings of $110 million.

Ronaldo’s financial success can be attributed to both his hefty salary and numerous endorsement deals. He signed a four-year contract with Italian club Juventus in 2018, reportedly worth $64 million per year. In addition to his club earnings, Ronaldo’s endorsement contracts with global brands like Nike, Herbalife, and Clear also contribute significantly to his income.

On the other hand, Messi’s earnings suffered a setback due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In August 2020, he made an attempt to leave his long-term club Barcelona but eventually decided to stay. As a result, he had to accept a reduced salary in a revised contract. Additionally, Messi’s endorsement deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and other brands have also been affected by the pandemic.

It’s worth noting that both Ronaldo and Messi have consistently been among the highest-earning athletes in the world for many years. Their incredible performances on the field and global popularity have attracted numerous endorsement deals, making them not only football superstars but also financial powerhouses.

The rivalry between Ronaldo and Messi extends beyond the football pitch, as they constantly compete for titles, records, and accolades. However, when it comes to the earnings game, Ronaldo has temporarily overtaken Messi, securing his place as the new king of earning power.