(PHOTOS) TOP 10: Highest-Earning Athletes of 2025
Sports and business went hand in hand once again in 2025. The biggest stars didn’t just shine on the field, in the ring, or on the court—they also dominated the financial rankings with historic numbers.
The year 2025 reinforced a trend that continues to grow stronger: sports superstars are no longer defined only by wins, titles, or championships, but also by the massive fortunes they generate worldwide. According to figures published by sportico.com, the 100 highest-paid athletes on the planet generated an estimated $6.05 billion over the year, combining salaries, prize money, and off-field earnings.
Within that elite group, the Top 10 features athletes from multiple sports who have become global brands. From football and boxing to basketball, baseball, and golf, these names led the financial impact of sports in 2025.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi Lead Football’s Financial Power
The top spot belonged to Cristiano Ronaldo, who led the ranking with an estimated $260 million in earnings, driven largely by his contract with Al-Nassr and a powerful global portfolio of endorsements. His influence off the pitch continues to match his impact on it.
In third place sits Lionel Messi, with $130 million, fueled by his salary with Inter Miami and commercial deals that keep him among the most recognizable athletes in the world. They are joined by other football stars such as Karim Benzema, now with Al-Ittihad, and further down the list Kylian Mbappé, a key figure for Real Madrid, underscoring football’s dominance in the global sports economy.
Boxing, NBA and MLB: Millions On and Off the Field
Second on the list was Canelo Álvarez, who generated $137 million, once again proving that boxing remains a financial powerhouse when it comes to elite names. In the NBA, icons like LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors combined massive contracts with thriving off-court business ventures.
Baseball also made a strong showing. Juan Soto of the New York Mets and Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers both ranked among the top earners of the year, with Ohtani standing out in particular for his extraordinary endorsement income.
The Top 10 of 2025
- Cristiano Ronaldo – Al-Nassr
- Canelo Álvarez
- Lionel Messi – Inter Miami
- Juan Soto – New York Mets
- LeBron James – Los Angeles Lakers
- Karim Benzema – Al-Ittihad
- Stephen Curry – Golden State Warriors
- Shohei Ohtani – Los Angeles Dodgers
- Kevin Durant – Houston Rockets
- Jon Rahm
The ranking, based on data from sportico.com, confirms that modern sports extend far beyond competition. In 2025, these stars not only dominated their respective disciplines—they also built financial empires that continue to grow year after year.
