Top 10 highest-paid footballers in the world

#1 Lionel Messi

SD Eibar v FC Barcelona - La Liga

Lionel Messi is now the highest-paid athlete in the world having dethroned Floyd Mayweather, who was the proud holder of the title last year. The Argentine is doubtless one of the most hero-worshipped stars in the world. Mesmerizing audiences week in, week out by virtue of his preternatural skills is a mere norm for him.

Currently, Messi is in contention for Ballon d'Or 2019, closely vying with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Virgil van Dijk. In all likelihood, a phenomenal performance in the upcoming Copa America will seal a victory for the 31-year-old.

Messi's current Barcelona contract ties him with the club until 2021, paying him over $80 million annually. He also acquires $35 million from endorsements, thanks to a lifelong deal with Adidas and other deals with companies including Gatorade, Pepsi, Huawei, Ooredoo, etc. He boasts an annual pay of $127 million!