By Michael McKnight, SI.com

Roger Federer stands atop the International 20 for the fourth straight year, but this year's list is marked by David Beckham's return to the top 5, and Manny Pacquiao's fall from it.

Not that Pacquiao did anything wrong; in fact the recent reorganization of his non-boxing deals should lead to increased endorsement earnings in the years ahead. But timing is everything in boxing, and the pride of the Phillipines fought just once in the 12 months we measured. (His two fights the previous year put him at No. 2 on the 2011 list.)

Beckham, meanwhile, has perfected a Mayweather-esque strategy that maximizes his earnings at every turn, and forges deals that will pay him not just now, but well into the future. The seven other footballers on this list would be wise to take notes.

Also of note: Maria Sharapova is back after dropping out of the Top 20 a year ago. After some off-court reorganizing of her own, she stands as the only woman among the athletes on this year's International 20 and Fortunate 50 lists.

Our list includes salary, bonuses, endorsement income and appearance fees. For the Fortunate 50 list of the top-earning American athletes, click here.

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