Messi became Elon Musk of the players

Leading Argentine footballer Lionel Messi tops Forbes Magazine's annual list of highest paid athletes.

The Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) player also surpassed American basketball player LeBron James and Manchester United striker Cristiano Ronaldo.

During the 12-month period ending May 1, 2022, Macy's earned $130 million, including a 55 million bonus. Earlier, in 2021, Irish mixed martial arts player Connor McGregor topped the list.

Los Angeles Lakers' James is second on the new list with an income of $121 million. He broke his previous record in the NBA with an income of $96.5 million, while Portugal captain Ronaldo's income has reached $115 million.

Brazil's national team player Neymar ranks fourth among millionaire players with assets of 95 95 million, while Golden State Warriors player Stephen Curry's assets are worth $92.8 million.

Kevin Durant of the Brooklyn Nets earned $92 million and is ranked sixth. Roger Federer, a Swiss tennis player who made $90.7 million in 2021 despite playing in only five tournaments before the end of the season due to knee surgery.

Mexican boxer Canelo Alvarez is ranked eighth with a net worth of 90 million. American footballer Tom Brady has a net worth of $83.9 million and the Greek Yankee Antocombo Milwaukee Bucks has a net worth of $80.9 million.

Forbes said players' contracts from the game include all rewards, salaries and bonuses over a 12-month period.