Ronaldo Tops Forbes’ 2025 Richest Athletes List, Surpassing Curry, Fury; Messi at No. 5

Ronaldo Tops Forbes’ 2025 Richest Athletes List

Ronaldo Tops Forbes’ 2025 Richest Athletes List, Surpassing Curry, Fury; Messi at No. 5

In a testament to his enduring global appeal and unprecedented success, Cristiano Ronaldo has once again clinched the top spot on Forbes' 2025 list of highest-paid athletes, marking his third consecutive year at the pinnacle. With an astounding $275 million amassed over the past year, the Portuguese soccer icon leads an elite roster where every athlete surpassed the $100 million earnings mark.

Ronaldo's financial feat owes much to his lucrative salary, endorsements, and personal ventures. He's followed closely by NBA sharpshooter Stephen Curry, who claimed $156 million and occupies the second spot. Tyson Fury, the charismatic heavyweight boxer, rounds out the top three with $146 million, reinforcing the sport's appeal outside traditional team-centric revenue streams.

NFL quarterback Dak Prescott stands out as the solitary representative from American football in the top ten, taking the fourth position with $137 million. Lionel Messi, fresh off a World Cup victory, secures his place in the top five, earning $135 million through his contracts and numerous partnerships.

NBA luminary LeBron James ranks sixth, generating approximately $133.8 million, while major league baseball is represented by Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani at positions seven and nine with $114 million and $102.5 million, respectively. Soccer star Karim Benzema slots in at eighth with $104 million, and Kevin Durant concludes the elite list at tenth, accruing $101.4 million.

Forbes’ enumeration continues to underscore the blend of athletic prowess and strategic branding required to reach such financial heights, reflecting a dynamic where performance on and off the field shapes the new era of sports economics.

Here's the detailed list of Forbes' 10 highest-paid athletes for 2025: