Cristiano Ronaldo Leads Forbes’ 2025 Ranking of Football’s Top Earners, Outpacing Lionel Messi
Even at 40, Cristiano Ronaldo remains a dominant force both on the field and in financial terms, solidifying his position as the highest-paid footballer globally.
The Portuguese icon tops Forbes’ 2025 list with an astonishing total income of $280 million.
Following him is Lionel Messi, who earned $130 million this year, illustrating that the financial competition between these two football legends remains intense despite their advancing careers.
Together, the ten highest-paid footballers have amassed nearly $1 billion in earnings, highlighting the sport’s vast commercial success across markets such as Saudi Arabia, Europe, and the United States.
10. Lamine Yamal – $43 million
At only 18 years old, Lamine Yamal has become the youngest player ever to appear on Forbes’ list of top-earning footballers.
His $33 million income from Barcelona, combined with $10 million from endorsements, marks him as a trailblazer for the new generation of football stars.
Fresh off Spain’s Euro 2024 victory, Yamal now proudly dons Barcelona’s legendary No. 10 jersey, a number once worn by Messi himself.
His social media reach eclipses many seasoned players, with posts averaging over 33 million views. His signature “304” celebration has already been trademarked for merchandise, signaling his savvy approach to building a business empire while still in his teens.
9. Jude Bellingham – $44 million
Jude Bellingham’s meteoric ascent has been remarkable. At 22, he boasts major honors including the Champions League and La Liga titles with Real Madrid, and was recently named England’s Player of the Year.
Forbes reports his total earnings at $44 million, combining a $29 million salary with $15 million from endorsements.
His collaborations with Adidas and Lucozade enhance his polished public persona, while his outspoken support for mental health awareness has earned him admiration as a role model among young athletes.
Despite recovering from shoulder surgery, Bellingham’s influence continues to expand, establishing him as both a generational talent and a moral leader in contemporary football.
8. Sadio Mané – $54 million
Sadio Mané’s move to Al Nassr reunited him with Cristiano Ronaldo, a partnership that has proven lucrative.
He earns $50 million in salary plus $4 million from endorsements, capitalizing on the growing football market in the Middle East.
Known for his humility and devout faith, Mané’s response about his future in Saudi Arabia was simply, “Inshallah.”
On the pitch, he remains a vital contributor to Al Nassr’s quest for another league title, while off it, his partnerships with New Balance and charitable work in Senegal continue to build his enduring legacy.
7. Mohamed Salah – $55 million
Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s celebrated Egyptian forward, continues to shatter records and recently renewed his contract through 2027.
His $35 million salary, combined with $20 million in endorsements, secures his place among football’s top earners.
As a national hero who recently led Egypt to World Cup qualification, Salah’s endorsements with Adidas and Pepsi amplify his global reach.
His combination of humility and professionalism has earned him widespread admiration, proving that superstardom and discipline can coexist. Even in his thirties, Salah’s brand remains as dynamic as his goal-scoring ability.
6. Vinicius Junior – $60 million
Brazilian star Vinicius Jr. of Real Madrid continues to enchant fans and sponsors alike, earning a Ballon d’Or nomination this season.
He commands $40 million from his club contract and $20 million from endorsements with prestigious brands like Nike, Hugo Boss, and Prada, establishing himself as both a football and fashion icon.
Despite a recent slump sparking speculation about a move to Saudi Arabia, at 25, Vinicius has already accomplished more than many do in their entire careers. His flair, confidence, and charisma make him a global ambassador for the modern era of football.
5. Erling Haaland – $80 million
Erling Haaland remains Manchester City’s lethal striker, and his earnings reflect his on-field dominance.
With a $60 million salary from a new nine-year deal and $20 million from endorsements, Haaland ranks among football’s most marketable young stars.
Off the pitch, Haaland’s calm demeanor contrasts with his ruthless scoring ability, nearing 100 Premier League goals. His endorsement portfolio includes Nike and Norwegian brands, such as a seafood campaign and the luggage company Db, co-owned by LVMH. His brand is as sharp and enduring as his finishing prowess.
4. Kylian Mbappé – $95 million
Kylian Mbappé’s much-anticipated transfer to Real Madrid has finally come to fruition. Although his debut season didn’t bring a Champions League trophy, his financial rewards remained impressive.
He earns $70 million from Real Madrid and an additional $25 million from off-field ventures, despite recent legal disputes over wages with PSG.
Mbappé is also making strategic investments, holding significant stakes in companies like Loewe, Wristcheck, and a French football club, positioning himself as football’s next global ambassador as the Ronaldo-Messi era fades.
3. Karim Benzema – $104 million
Karim Benzema, the French striker who once dominated European football with Real Madrid, continues to earn handsomely in Saudi Arabia with Al Ittihad.
The 37-year-old’s $100 million salary and $4 million in endorsements place him among the sport’s elite earners. His consistent goal-scoring has silenced critics of his late-career move to the Saudi Pro League.
While he has hinted at a potential return to Europe, his current form and lucrative contract suggest satisfaction with his present situation. His endorsement deals with Adidas and Assaf Perfumes further highlight his commercial appeal beyond European football.
2. Lionel Messi – $130 million
Although Lionel Messi is approaching the twilight of his career in Miami, his financial clout remains formidable.
Forbes estimates his total earnings at $130 million, split between $60 million from playing and $70 million from endorsements. His brand partnerships include Adidas, Mastercard, Lay’s, and his own sports drink, Más+ by Messi.
Messi has also ventured into hospitality and restaurant businesses, blending his football genius with entrepreneurial acumen. With Inter Miami reportedly eager to extend his contract through 2026, Messi is set to continue his unique fusion of sporting excellence, family life, and business success amid the MLS boom.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – $280 million
At 40 years old, Cristiano Ronaldo remains the world’s highest-paid footballer, earning $230 million from Al Nassr and an additional $50 million through endorsements.
His endorsement portfolio features global giants like Nike, Binance, and Herbalife, alongside his expanding CR7 brand encompassing hotels, gyms, and luxury watches. With nearly 1.04 billion followers across social media platforms, Ronaldo holds the title of the most followed individual worldwide.
Having conquered Europe’s top leagues and secured five Ballon d’Or trophies, Ronaldo is now pursuing his 1,000th career goal and aiming for one last World Cup appearance with Portugal.
No matter the outcome, his reign as football’s highest-paid athlete appears secure for the foreseeable future.