DAILY DIRT: That top salary breaks down to $5 million … a week

I wonder why Clint Eastwood never washed those ponchos? More in thought No. 2 … Welcome to today’s three thoughts that make up Vol. 957 of The Daily Dirt.

1. Brother, can you spare a dime?

With pro sports salaries exploding almost daily, here’s the most up-to-date list of the highest-paid athletes (including endorsements, etc.) in the world, compiled by Daily Dirt researchers … and Forbes magazine.

• 1. Cristiano Ronaldo: He might be 39 years old, which is rather ancient for a world-class soccer player, but Ronaldo is currently bringing home $260 million a year after his move to the relatively new league in Saudi Arabia.
• 2. Jon Rahm: The golfer joined LIV Golf in late 2023, and with good reason. The Spaniard’s bank account will be $218 million richer this year.
• 3. Lionel Messi: Salary and endorsement deals this year will allow the 36-year-old soccer star to pocket $135 million.
• 4. LeBron James: The first American on the list is the 39-year-old NBA star and his $128.2 million, earned through his pro basketball salary and outside interests.
• 5. Giannis Antetokounmpo: A second NBA star rounds out the top five at $111 million.

2. Did you know (Part 21) …

• That Clint Eastwood used the same poncho in all three of the “man with no name” films — and never had it cleaned. If you’re trying to think what those three movies were, if you guessed “A Fistful of Dollars (1964).” “For a Few Dollars More (1965)” and “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966)” you would be correct. 
• That Micky Dolenz of the Monkees and actor Tom Selleck went to high school together.
• That comedian Rick Moranis went to elementary school with Rush lead singer Geddy Lee.
• That actor Val Kilmer went to high school with actor Kevin Spacey.
• That actor Christopher (Superman) Reeve went to Juilliard with actor/comedian Robin Williams.

3. The longest ear hair ever recorded belongs to Anthony Victor of India, measured at 7.12 inches in 2007. You’re welcome.

Steve Thought O’ The Day — I wonder if that guy has ever had that ear hair braided?

Steve Eighinger writes daily for Muddy River News. He has a new world record to shoot for now.