Cristiano Ronaldo continues to dominate the financial league tables. In 2025, he topped Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes for the third year in a row, earning an estimated $275 million, or approximately ₹2,356 crore.
Football’s Financial Front-Runners
Ronaldo’s massive earnings are backed by his Saudi club contract and an unmatched endorsement empire. With a social media following nearing one billion, his influence extends well beyond the football pitch.
Lionel Messi, currently with Inter Miami, ranks fifth on the list with $135 million. His earnings come from both his Major League Soccer salary and major brand endorsements.
Karim Benzema, now playing for Al Ittihad, earned $104 million, securing the eighth spot.
Basketball’s Big Earners
Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry took the second spot with $156 million, thanks to his NBA contract and sponsorship deals.
LeBron James, still among the elite, earned $133.8 million, ranking sixth overall. Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns closed the top ten with $101.4 million.
Boxing and Gridiron Giants
Heavyweight boxer Tyson Fury landed third with $146 million. His financial success came not just from fights but also media deals, including a hit Netflix series.
NFL quarterback Dak Prescott followed in fourth with $137 million, driven by a hefty signing bonus and endorsements.
Baseball’s Billionaire Contenders
Juan Soto of the New York Mets earned $114 million, ranking seventh. Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers followed closely with $102.5 million, placing him ninth.
