At 39, most athletes are thinking about retirement. But Cristiano Ronaldo? He’s breaking records — again. In 2025, the Portuguese icon topped Forbes’ Highest Paid Athletes list, earning a jaw-dropping $275 million. That’s more than any footballer, boxer, or basketball star on the planet.
Ronaldo’s Record-Breaking $275M Income in 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t just top the list — he shattered expectations. With $275 million earned in a single year, he became the highest paid athlete globally. This total includes a massive $225 million from his contract with Al-Nassr, plus $50 million from endorsements and business ventures. No other footballer or sports star came close.
Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr Salary Outpaces All Competitors
Playing for Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr, Ronaldo’s salary is the highest in football history. The $225 million on-field earnings include match bonuses, contract payouts, and performance incentives. His move to Saudi Arabia, once questioned, has now proven financially genius.
Endorsements Power Ronaldo’s Off-Field Success
Even off the pitch, Cristiano Ronaldo is a global money machine. He earned $50 million through deals with major brands like Nike, Binance, Herbalife, Clear Shampoo, and his own CR7 lifestyle brand. These endorsements not only boost his income but maintain his visibility across global markets.
Forbes’ 2025 Ranking — Ronaldo Outshines All
In Forbes’ official rankings, Ronaldo leads the top 10 athletes of 2025. He earns significantly more than any other athlete across all sports:
| Rank | Athlete | Sport | Total Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Soccer | $275 million |
| 2 | Stephen Curry | Basketball | $156 million |
| 3 | Tyson Fury | Boxing | $146 million |
| 4 | Dak Prescott | NFL | $137 million |
| 5 | Lionel Messi | Soccer | $135 million |
This means Ronaldo earned nearly $120 million more than Stephen Curry, who ranked second.
Ronaldo vs Messi: Who Earned More in 2025?
While both Ronaldo and Messi are football legends, Cristiano Ronaldo earned $140 million more than his long-time rival in 2025. Messi, now with Inter Miami, made $135 million, with $75 million off-field and $60 million on-field. Ronaldo’s massive salary in Saudi Arabia gave him the clear edge.
Other Footballers on the List Fall Behind
Besides Ronaldo and Messi, only Karim Benzema made it to the top 10. The French striker, also playing in Saudi Arabia for Al-Ittihad, earned $104 million — a huge sum, but still $171 million less than Ronaldo. Notably, Benzema earned just $4 million off the field, highlighting Ronaldo’s branding success.
Neymar’s Absence: A Fall from the Top
Surprisingly, Neymar dropped out of the top 10 in 2025. After moving from Al-Hilal to his boyhood club Santos, Neymar’s earnings declined, placing him at #25 on the list. His departure from the Saudi Pro League significantly impacted his annual income.
The CR7 Empire Keeps Growing
Cristiano Ronaldo’s brand, CR7, has grown far beyond football. From hotels and gyms to clothing lines and fragrances, his business ventures are flourishing. Combined with his social media empire — over 630 million Instagram followers — Ronaldo remains the most marketable athlete in the world.
Conclusion: Ronaldo Is Still Football’s Financial King
Even at the age of 39, Cristiano Ronaldo isn’t slowing down — on or off the pitch. His $275 million earnings in 2025 prove he’s not just a legendary athlete, but also a business powerhouse. While the next generation is rising, Ronaldo is still the gold standard for success in global sports.
FAQs about Cristiano Ronaldo’s 2025 Earnings
Q1. How much did Cristiano Ronaldo earn in 2025?
👉 $275 million — more than any athlete in the world.
Q2. What is Ronaldo’s salary at Al-Nassr?
👉 $225 million per year, including bonuses.
Q3. How much does Ronaldo earn from endorsements?
👉 Around $50 million from brands and CR7 products.
Q4. Who is the second-highest paid athlete in 2025?
👉 Stephen Curry with $156 million.
Q5. Is Cristiano Ronaldo still relevant in 2025?
👉 Yes, both as a top footballer and a global business icon.