Ronaldo Tops Forbes Highest-Paid Athletes of 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo has been named the world's highest-paid athlete by Forbes for the third consecutive year and fifth time overall, earning an estimated $275 million over the past year. His income comprises a lucrative contract with Saudi club Al Nassr and $15 million from endorsements and sponsorships, bolstered by his 939 million social media followers. Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry ranked second with $156 million, followed by boxer Tyson Fury with $146 million and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott with $137 million. Lionel Messi, now at Inter Miami, ranked fifth with $135 million, primarily from endorsements. Other top earners include LeBron James, Juan Soto, Karim Benzema, and Shohei Ohtani. Ronaldo's earnings were only surpassed historically by Floyd Mayweather, highlighting his continued dominance in sports income.