Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has once again made history this time off the pitch. Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, Ronaldo has built not only a legendary career but also a powerful global brand that continues to grow with age.
Earlier this month, the Bloomberg Billionaires Index confirmed that the 40-year-old had officially joined the billionaire ranks, thanks to his latest contract extension with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
According to Forbes, the Madeira-born forward is now the highest-paid footballer in the world, earning an astonishing $230 million (R4 billion) on the field and an additional $50 million (R872 million) from sponsorships and endorsements.
Messi Still Among the World’s Best — On and Off the Field
Trailing closely behind is Ronaldo’s long-time rival Lionel Messi, proving that their legendary rivalry, which began nearly two decades ago, remains alive today this time in terms of earnings.
The Inter Miami star opted for Major League Soccer over the Middle East, a decision that has turned out to be highly lucrative. The Argentine icon reportedly earns $130 million (R2.2 billion) annually through his playing contract and commercial partnerships.
Rising Star Yamal Breaks Into Top 10
Perhaps the most surprising name on the list is Lamine Yamal, the 17-year-old sensation from Barcelona, who has quickly become one of the brightest young talents in the sport.
Forbes reports that Yamal ranks 10th overall, earning an estimated $43 million (R750 million) a year a remarkable figure for someone still in their teens. His rapid rise is a clear sign of his growing influence both on and off the pitch.
Full Forbes Top 10 Highest Paid Footballers (2025)
- Cristiano Ronaldo – $280 million (R4.8 billion)
- Lionel Messi – $130 million (R2.2 billion)
- Kylian Mbappé – $110 million (R1.9 billion)
- Neymar Jr. – $100 million (R1.7 billion)
- Karim Benzema – $95 million (R1.6 billion)
- Erling Haaland – $82 million (R1.4 billion)
- Mohamed Salah – $75 million (R1.3 billion)
- Kevin De Bruyne – $53 million (R920 million)
- Harry Kane – $47 million (R820 million)
- Lamine Yamal – $43 million (R750 million)
The Business of Modern Football
Football has evolved far beyond the pitch, with modern stars earning enormous sums through global sponsorships, personal brands, and media deals. Ronaldo and Messi remain at the top, but the entry of a teenager like Yamal highlights the new generation of marketable superstars ready to dominate the sport for years to come.
As the global game expands to new markets, these figures are likely to rise even higher proving once again that football is not just a sport, but a multi-billion-dollar business.
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