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Cristiano Ronaldo: The World’s Highest-Paid Athlete in 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo, even at age 40, continues to redefine what it means to be a global sports icon-not just on the pitch, but in the world of business and branding. According to Forbes’ latest rankings for 2025, the Portuguese superstar has once again claimed the title of the world’s highest-paid athlete, earning an extraordinary $275 million (about INR 2,356 crore) over the past year. This puts him far ahead of other sporting legends like Stephen Curry, Lionel Messi, and LeBron James.
Ronaldo’s Unmatched Earnings Power
Ronaldo’s financial success is a testament to both his enduring athletic prowess and his savvy off-field ventures. While his contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr is among the most lucrative in football history, his real financial muscle comes from his global brand. Ronaldo’s endorsement deals with giants like Nike, Herbalife, and Binance, along with his own CR7-branded products-ranging from hotels to fragrances-have created a business empire few athletes can rival.
His social media reach is staggering, with nearly a billion followers across platforms. This digital influence not only boosts his brand value but also makes him a magnet for high-profile sponsorships and marketing campaigns.
The Competition: Curry, Fury, Messi, and LeBron
Behind Ronaldo, NBA sharpshooter Stephen Curry sits in second place with $156 million in earnings. Curry’s income is fueled by his record-setting performances on the court, as well as lucrative partnerships with brands like Under Armour and his own business ventures in media and beverages.
Boxer Tyson Fury rounds out the top three, earning $146 million thanks to a mix of prize money, endorsements, and even a hit Netflix reality show. Despite setbacks in the ring, Fury’s commercial appeal remains strong.
Lionel Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, ranks fifth with $135 million. Messi’s move to Major League Soccer has not only boosted his own earnings but also elevated the league’s global profile. More than half of his income comes from off-field activities, including endorsements and business deals.
LeBron James, ever the consistent performer, is sixth on the list with $133.8 million. The NBA legend continues to dominate both on the court and in the business world, with investments in media, sports, and various entrepreneurial ventures.
How Forbes Compiled the List
Forbes’ rankings are based on total earnings from May 1, 2024, to May 1, 2025, combining salaries, winnings, endorsements, licensing, and business income. The publication relies on industry sources, salary databases, and news reports to ensure accuracy, converting all figures to U.S. dollars for consistency.
A New Era of Athlete Wealth
This year’s list is historic: for the first time, every athlete in the top ten earned over $100 million, with the group collectively amassing a record $1.38 billion. This milestone highlights the ever-growing commercial power of sports and the global reach of its biggest stars.
The Takeaway
Cristiano Ronaldo’s reign at the top is about more than just football-it’s about building a brand and a business that transcends sport. As athletes continue to expand their influence beyond the field, court, or ring, the boundaries of what’s possible in sports business are being pushed further than ever before.
Ronaldo’s story is a blueprint for the modern athlete: combine elite performance with entrepreneurial vision, and the sky’s the limit.
Sources:
Forbes: The World’s Highest-Paid Athletes 2025
ESPN
BBC Sport
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