Cristiano Ronaldo Tops Forbes List of Highest-Paid Athletes in 2025 for Third Consecutive Year

New York:Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes’ list of the world’s highest-paid athletes in 2025 — marking his third consecutive year at No. 1 and fifth time overall leading the prestigious ranking.

According to the American business magazine *Forbes*, Ronaldo increased his total annual earnings by \$15 million this year, bringing his 2025 income to a staggering **\$275 million**. The 40-year-old, who joined Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr in December 2022, has leveraged his global fame with lucrative endorsement deals, sponsorships, and brand collaborations off the pitch.

Following Ronaldo, **American basketball star Stephen Curry** secured second place with **\$156 million**, while **British boxer Tyson Fury** ranked third with **\$146 million** in earnings.

Ronaldo’s long-time football rival, **Lionel Messi**, who previously held a top-three position, slipped to fifth place this year with earnings of **\$135 million**.

### Forbes’ Top 10 Highest-Paid Athletes in the World – 2025:

1. **Cristiano Ronaldo** (Football) – \$275 million
2. **Stephen Curry** (Basketball) – \$156 million
3. **Tyson Fury** (Boxing) – \$146 million
4. **Dak Prescott** (American Football) – \$137 million
5. **Lionel Messi** (Football) – \$135 million
6. **LeBron James** (Basketball) – \$133.8 million
7. **Juan Soto** (Baseball) – \$114 million
8. **Karim Benzema** (Football) – \$104 million
9. **Shohei Ohtani** (Baseball) – \$102.5 million
10. **Kevin Durant** (Basketball) – \$101.4 million

Ronaldo’s continued dominance in global sports income reflects not only his performance on the field but also his massive commercial appeal and branding power. His deal with Al Nassr, combined with endorsements from major global companies, keeps him far ahead of his competitors in total earnings.