Cristiano Ronaldo has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes’ 2025 list of the world’s highest-paid athletes, while long-time rival Lionel Messi has slipped two places in the rankings.
According to the financial publication’s latest report, Ronaldo, currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, is the highest earner among global athletes for the fifth time.
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The former Real Madrid star brought in a staggering $225 million (£169.1m) from his football-related income, in addition to making another $50 million (£37.5m) from endorsements and off-field ventures.
Lionel Messi, who remains on the list for another consecutive year, has seen his position fall from third to fifth.
Now at Inter Miami, the Argentine icon and 2022 World Cup winner earned $60 million (£45.1m) through his playing contract with the MLS club. Off the pitch, his income from sponsorships and commercial deals reached $75 million (£56.3m).Kylian Mbappe, who was ranked sixth in 2024, has dropped out of the top 10 altogether.
This is largely attributed to the significant pay cut he accepted to secure his move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid.
On the other hand, former France international and current Al-Ittihad striker Karim Benzema has managed to maintain his position at eighth, with total earnings of $104 million (£78.1m).
Looking ahead, both Ronaldo and Messi could see fluctuations in their future rankings. Speculation continues to swirl around Ronaldo’s future at Al-Nassr, with potential moves on the horizon that might impact his income.
Similarly, Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami is nearing its end, which could also influence his standing in next year’s financial rankings.
