Never before has an active athlete earned as much as C. Ronaldo, and where is the end?

Cristiano Ronaldo has surpassed $2 billion in career earnings, becoming the first active athlete to reach this milestone. Forbes estimates he will earn $250 million from football and an additional $50 million from endorsements in the 2026/2027 season. Lionel Messi is expected to follow closely, with projected earnings of $145 million this season. Kylian Mbappé ranks third with an anticipated $100 million increase. The impact of social media on player performance is highlighted, as a seemingly harmless statement could create tensions within the Portuguese national team.