Dhoni world’s 16th highest-paid athlete

India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, with earnings of $31.5 million, has been ranked at 16th place on Forbes' list of highest-paid athletes, which has been topped by golfer Tiger Woods.

India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, with earnings of $31.5 million, has been ranked at 16th place on Forbes' list of highest-paid athletes, which has been topped by golfer Tiger Woods.

The magazine said 31-year-old Dhoni moved up 15 positions this year. In 2012, he was placed at 31st position.

The influential business magazine estimated that Dhoni made $31.5 million over the last year from prize money and endorsements.

37-year-old Woods made $78.1 million followed by Tennis star Roger Federer at $71.5 million. Kobe Bryant, American professional basketball player, is third at $61.9 million.

Federer had topped the 2012 list.

This year's 100-strong list features just three women led by Tennis ace Maria Sharapova, who ranks No 22 with earnings of $29 million.

Sharapova is joined by No 68 Serena Williams, who raked in $20.5 million, including $8.5 million in prize money.

While China's Li Na ranks 85th overall with earnings of $18.2 million.