Ronaldo Leads with Record $275 Million in Earnings
Global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes’ list of the world’s highest-paid athletes, marking the third consecutive year and the fifth time in his career.
Following his high-profile move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s total earnings are estimated at $275 million, boosted by a $15 million increase in off-field endorsements and sponsorship deals. His staggering 939 million social media followers (as of May) continue to attract global brands and advertisers.
Stephen Curry Climbs to Second with $156 Million
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry, who recently became the first NBA player to reach 4,000 career three-pointers, has jumped to second place with total earnings of $156 million. His income combines a substantial NBA salary with endorsements and media appearances.
Tyson Fury Secures Third Spot Despite Title Loss
British boxer Tyson Fury ranks third with $146 million, despite losing his world heavyweight titles to Oleksandr Usyk in December. His income has remained strong thanks to commercial partnerships, particularly with Maltese tourism and his popular Netflix reality show.
NFL’s Dak Prescott Takes Fourth with $137 Million
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott comes in at fourth place, earning $137 million. His impressive income stems from record-breaking signing bonuses and a lucrative contract extension, making him one of the NFL’s top earners.
Lionel Messi Drops to Fifth, Still Earns $135 Million
Argentine legend Lionel Messi, now playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), ranks fifth with $135 million in earnings — the same as last year. Messi continues to enjoy high-profile endorsements, including major deals with Adidas and Apple.
LeBron James in Sixth Place with $133.8 Million
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James, nearing the twilight of his iconic NBA career, ranks sixth with earnings of $133.8 million, maintaining his strong presence both on and off the court through investments, endorsements, and media ventures.
Juan Soto Makes History, Ranks Seventh with $114 Million
MLB star Juan Soto lands at seventh place with $114 million in earnings. The 26-year-old New York Mets outfielder signed a record-breaking $765 million, 15-year contract — the largest in baseball history.
Karim Benzema Eighth with $104 Million
French striker Karim Benzema, now playing for Saudi club Al Ittihad, ranks eighth with $104 million. His move to the Saudi Pro League has significantly boosted his financial profile.
Shohei Ohtani Ninth with $102.5 Million
Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani comes in ninth with $102.5 million in earnings. Though he deferred most of his contract income with the Los Angeles Dodgers, his earnings were bolstered by the team’s World Series win and endorsement deals.
Kevin Durant Rounds Out Top 10 with $101.4 Million
NBA forward Kevin Durant, currently playing for the Phoenix Suns, completes the top 10 with $101.4 million in total earnings. His income includes a mix of NBA salary, investments, and endorsement contracts.
