Spanish golf sensation Jon Rahm has driven his way to the top of Forbes’ list of the highest-paid athletes in the world, dethroning football giants Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

Rahm’s ascent comes after his lucrative signing with the breakaway LIV Golf group, reportedly worth a staggering £450 million, with an upfront payment of £237.5 million.

This astronomical sum catapults him past Ronaldo (estimated earnings: $136 million) and Messi ($130 million), solidifying his position as the world’s highest-paid sportsperson.

Despite previously expressing his dedication to the PGA Tour, Rahm ultimately opted for the lucrative offer from LIV, joining fellow golfing stars like Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson.

This move is sure to raise questions about his eligibility for future Ryder Cup competitions, as LIV Golf players currently face potential exclusion.

Top 5 Highest-Paid Athletes of 2023:

• Jon Rahm, Golf – $300 million
• Cristiano Ronaldo, Football – $136 million
• Lionel Messi, Football – $130 million
• Kylian Mbappe, Football – $120 million
• LeBron James, Basketball – $119.5 million

While Rahm’s financial success is undeniable, his switch to LIV Golf raises concerns about the future of the PGA Tour and the wider world of professional golf.

The competition’s immense financial backing, funded by the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, has sparked criticism regarding human rights abuses and accusations of “sportswashing.”