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Lionel Messi, LeBron James tops Forbes' list of highest-paid athletes

Paris Saint-Germain striker Lionel Messi is the world's highest paid athlete for the second time, according to Forbes' annual list of the highest-paid athletes.

Messi made $130 million between May 1, 2021 and May 1, 2022 before taxes. The magazine's methodology is based on talks with industry insiders, agents for the athletes and overall compensation including prize money, salaries and bonuses.

The top 50 athletes athletes combined to take home almost $1 billion over the last 12 months.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is second on the list, with $121.2 million, earning $41.2 million in basketball salary and $80 million off the court.

PSG's Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring a goal.
PSG's Lionel Messi celebrates after scoring a goal.

The only baseball player on the list is Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout, who made $49.5 million to come in at 23rd.

There are no hockey players on the list and only two women cracked the top 50: Tennis stars Naomi Osaka (No. 19, $52.5 million) and Serena Williams (No. 31, $45.3 million).

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Forbes' highest-paid athletes

(May 1, 2021 to May 1, 2022)

1. Lionel Messi (soccer), $130 million

2. LeBron James (NBA), $121.2 million

3. Cristiano Ronaldo (soccer), $115 million

4. Neymar (soccer), $95 million

5. Stephen Curry (NBA), $92.8 million

6. Kevin Durant (NBA), $92.1 million

7. Roger Federer (tennis), $90.7 million

8. Canelo Alvarez (boxing), $90 million

9. Tom Brady (NFL), $83.9 million

10. Giannis Antetokounmpo (NBA), $80.9 million

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lionel Messi, LeBron James atop highest-paid athletes