These Are the Highest-Paid Athletes of 2025
Normally, we break down the top earners in a football league, but this time, we’re stepping outside the lines of the pitch. Last week, Forbes, the iconic business publication famed for its rich lists and financial deep dives, unveiled its much-anticipated ranking of the world’s highest-paid athletes for 2025. Spoiler-alert: the numbers are absolutely jaw-dropping.
Here are the Ten Highest-Paid Athletes in the World in 2025.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – $275 million
Cristiano Ronaldo once again tops the list, cementing his status as not just a football legend, but a global commercial powerhouse. The Portuguese star’s move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr sent shockwaves through the sports world, and through his bank account. On the pitch, he continues to deliver goals well into his late 30s, but it’s off the field where he truly dominates. With nearly a billion social media followers and massive endorsement deals with brands like Nike, Binance, and Herbalife, Ronaldo is a marketing juggernaut. He’s not just the highest-paid athlete of 2025, he’s in a league of his own.
2. Stephen Curry – $156 million
Golden State Warriors icon Stephen Curry is redefining what it means to be a modern athlete. With $156 million in earnings, he sits comfortably in second place. Curry remains the face of the NBA and the league’s most electrifying shooter, but his empire stretches far beyond the hardwood. His deal with Under Armour now includes a signature brand under his name, à la Jordan. He also has thriving production ventures and tech investments, proving that his financial game is just as sharp as his three-point shot.
3. Tyson Fury – $146 million
Heavyweight boxing is back in the spotlight, thanks in large part to Tyson Fury. Despite recent ups and downs in the ring, the Gypsy King pulled in $146 million over the past year. His earnings are boosted by blockbuster fight purses, lucrative rematch clauses, and a growing list of endorsements, including an unlikely but successful campaign for Maltese tourism. His larger-than-life personality and reality show on Netflix keep him relevant even outside the ring, showing that charisma can be just as profitable as punches.
4. Dak Prescott – $137 million
NFL quarterbacks have never been more valuable, and Dak Prescott is living proof. With $137 million in total earnings, the Dallas Cowboys star rides high on a massive contract extension that includes eye-watering bonuses. Though his performances have been scrutinized at times, Prescott remains one of the league’s marquee names. He’s also making savvy moves off the field, investing in startups, real estate, and even a line of sleep products. In the NFL’s billion-dollar ecosystem, Prescott is one of its top earners, and smartest players.
5. Lionel Messi – $135 million
Lionel Messi’s football journey took a dramatic new turn with his move to Inter Miami, and it’s paying off, big time. With $135 million in earnings, the Argentine maestro continues to dazzle on the pitch while expanding his global brand in the U.S. market. His deals with Adidas, Apple, and other major players remain strong, while his presence in MLS has brought unprecedented attention to the league. Even in the twilight of his career, Messi continues to cash in like few others in sports history.
Rest of the list:
6. LeBron James – $133.8 million
The King keeps his throne in the top ten. At age 40, LeBron James is still an elite NBA player, and an even better businessman. His income flows from endorsements, media projects, and ownership stakes across sports and entertainment.
7. Juan Soto – $114 million
Baseball’s biggest deal ever belongs to Juan Soto. His 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets sent shockwaves through MLB and locked him into the top ten earners worldwide.
8. Karim Benzema – $104 million
Karim Benzema’s move to Saudi Arabia may have surprised some, but with $104 million in earnings, it was clearly a financial masterstroke. Even in a new league, the former Ballon d’Or winner remains a massive draw.
9. Shohei Ohtani – $102.5 million
Shohei Ohtani continues to be a unicorn in baseball, dominant as both a pitcher and batter. Though much of his Dodgers salary is deferred, he makes up for it with massive endorsement deals, especially in Japan and the U.S.
10. Kevin Durant – $101.4 million
Kevin Durant wraps up the top ten with his sharp shooting—and sharper business sense. On top of his NBA salary, Durant’s portfolio includes tech investments, media ventures, and one of the most respected personal brands in American sports.
These were the Highest-Paid Athletes of 2025, whose earnings reflect not only athletic dominance but also global marketability and business acumen. In today’s sports world, performance alone doesn’t top the pay charts, vision, branding, and timing are just as crucial. And these ten prove they’ve mastered all of it.
Information from Forbes’ 2025 list of the World’s Highest-Paid Athletes.
