Portuguese football icon Cristiano Ronaldo leads the Forbes 2025 ranking of the world’s highest-earning football players with an impressive $280 million. The 40-year-old Al Nassr star earned $230 million from his football activities and an additional $50 million through sponsorships and endorsements.
Lionel Messi follows in second place with total earnings of $130 million, which includes $60 million from his on-field performance and $70 million from off-field ventures. Despite being 38 and nearing the twilight of his career, Messi’s influence remains strong due to his enduring global appeal.
Karim Benzema ranks third with $104 million, largely from his contract in Saudi Arabia, while Kylian Mbapp\u00e9 takes fourth with $95 million. The French forward’s new deal and brand partnerships have strengthened his status as a future face of world football.
Erling Haaland sits in fifth place with $80 million, driven by his scoring prowess at Manchester City and an increasing number of commercial endorsements. Vin\u00edcius J\u00fanior follows closely with $60 million, ahead of Mohamed Salah with $55 million and Sadio Man\u00e9 with $54 million.
England’s Jude Bellingham comes ninth, earning $44 million, thanks to his standout performances for Real Madrid and his growing popularity among sponsors. Completing the top ten is Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who brought in $43 million at just 18 years old.
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