TThis year, Cristiano Ronaldo not only found the back of the net on the field, but also solidified his status as the most lucrative athlete in the sport.
According to the latest figures from Forbes, Ronaldo earned an estimated $275 million in the 12 months to May 2025, more than any other name in world sport.
The Portuguese forward’s impressive achievements are built on two pillars: his contract with Saudi Arabia’s Al Nasr, and his extensive sponsorship deals spread across the world.
His on-field guaranteed income amounted to approximately $225 million, and his endorsement contributions amounted to approximately $50 million.
Why Ronaldo is still a dominant presence
Despite being in his early 40s, Ronaldo is not only active but also financially dominant. His decision to return to Al Nasr in 2023 paid off not only sportingly but also commercially.
What sets him apart is the scale of his brand, which attracts significant media attention alongside his sporting activities.
Forbes highlights that his social media influence and influence are key factors in his earning power.
To put his dominance in perspective, NBA superstar Stephen Curry follows in second place on Forbes magazine’s athlete earnings rankings with about $156 million, meaning Ronaldo earned nearly $120 million more.
His achievement also means Ronaldo will once again lead a small group of footballers who break into the top tier of sports income.
Lionel Messi, for example, is estimated to have earned around $135 million over the same period, which is impressive but still a long way from Ronaldo’s record.
From a broader perspective, Ronaldo’s continued dominance shows how football’s economic peak continues to rise. Salaries and sponsorship deals have reached heights once thought unimaginable in the sport.
What makes this story all the more compelling is the enduring nature of his commercial appeal. His athletic peak may be behind him, but his brand is still extremely valuable.
Analysts say his combination of on-field accomplishments, social media clout and global influence could allow him to monetize in a way that younger athletes still struggle to match.
Moreover, his financial surge coincides with broader changes. Elite soccer players are paid not just for goals and appearances, but also for their ability to attract spectators, sell product and enhance the club’s brand globally. In that sense, Ronaldo remains a template.
It will be interesting to see what happens next. Now that Ronaldo is nearing the twilight of his playing career, the question is how his off-field income and brand momentum will change.
With a contract in Saudi Arabia, continued support around the world, and a fan base numbering in the hundreds of millions, he’s likely to remain at the top of the earnings charts for some time.
