Overview

• Cristiano Ronaldo leads Forbes' 2025 list of highest-paid athletes for the third consecutive year, earning $275 million through salary, bonuses, and endorsements.
• Stephen Curry ranks second with $156 million, while Tyson Fury secures third place with $146 million, boosted by off-field ventures like a Netflix show.
• The earnings threshold for the Top 50 athletes rose 19% year-on-year, now exceeding $53 million, reflecting a significant increase in sports income.
• Formula 1 stars Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen make their debut in the Top 25, ranking 22nd and 24th with earnings of $80 million and $72 million respectively.
• Football remains the most represented sport with eight players in the Top 50, including Lionel Messi at fifth place with $135 million.