Forbes has released its annual list of the world’s highest-paid footballers for 2025, and once again, Cristiano Ronaldo sits firmly at the top. The Portuguese superstar, who captains Saudi club Al Nassr, continues to dominate both on the pitch and financially, with staggering earnings that outshine every other player in the game.
According to Forbes, Ronaldo’s total annual income stands at $280 million, including salary, bonuses, and endorsements making him the world’s most lucrative football brand.
Messi and Benzema Follow Closely Behind
In second place is Lionel Messi, now playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS). The Argentine legend continues to enjoy massive popularity in the United States, earning around $130 million annually, driven by both his club contract and global sponsorships with brands like Adidas and Apple.
Karim Benzema, representing Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League, takes third place with $104 million in annual income. The French striker, who left Real Madrid in 2023, remains a key figure in the growing football landscape of Saudi Arabia.
Rising Stars Join the Elite List
France’s Kylian Mbappé ranks fourth with approximately $95 million, split between his PSG salary and endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike and Hublot. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah stands fifth with around $55 million, solidifying his position as the highest-paid African footballer in the world.
One of the most notable entries this year is Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who has made the Forbes top ten for the first time. The young Barcelona star reportedly earns $43 million, marking an extraordinary rise for a player still in his teens.
Saudi Pro League’s Financial Power on Display
The presence of Ronaldo and Benzema in the top three highlights the massive financial influence of Saudi football. Over the past few years, the Saudi Pro League has made global headlines by attracting elite players through record-breaking contracts. This growing trend is reshaping the economics of world football and giving Middle Eastern clubs an increasingly strong foothold in the global sports market.
Conclusion
The Forbes 2025 list of highest-paid footballers reflects the changing dynamics of modern football, where top players earn almost as much from off-field endorsements as they do from their club contracts. From Ronaldo’s unmatched earning power to Yamal’s rapid rise, the gap between experience and youth has never been more fascinating.