Valentino Rossi is well-payed for his services - even when he is experiencing the toughest time of his career.

Struggling Ducati MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi continues to be the highest paid rider on the grand prix grid, according to figures released by Forbes magazine this month.

Forbes released its annual highest paid athletes during the past year recently, with Rossi the lone bike racer on the lost in position 20.

Despite failing to adapt to the troublesome Desmosedici and scoring just one podium per season – both at Le Mans in wet conditions – Rossi has earned $US30-million during the past 12 months.

It’s suggested that $US17-million is from Ducati, while the remaining funds are made up via personal sponsorship deals.

Boxer Floyd Mayweather headed the star-studded list, earning a reported $US85-million in 2012.