Cristiano Ronaldo has increased the gap between him and Lionel Messi financially since he topped the highest paid athletes list three years consecutively. In 2025, the Al-Nassr forward received a salary of 260 million dollars, twice as much as Messi was reported to earn, and proving that there is no competition in terms of commercial powers in the sporting world.
Sportico credits the lion share of the income of Ronaldo in his Saudi Pro League deal which remunerates him at a rate of about 200 million annually. In addition to the profits made on the pitch, Ronaldo earned himself an extra $60 million in sponsorships, licensing, and business ventures of his own. This marks his third year in the career when he has reached over 200 million in one year.
At 40, Ronaldo still continues to go against established career trajectories. The fact that he has outlived many of the other players, together with an extremely well-controlled personal brand, has seen him continue to be an influential figure in commerce even after he left the top leagues in Europe. His endorsement partners cut across sportswear, nutrition, technology and wellness industries, which make him one of the most diversified athlete-investors of all time.
Messi, currently a top star in the Major League Soccer, earned $130 million in 2025 and is ranked third in total. Recent extension of contract with Inter Miami until 2028 guarantees his appearance in the United States market where his popularity has contributed greatly to the popularity of MLS and the desire to sponsor it.
Sportico list has 13 footballers in its top 100 list, which demonstrates that the sport remains the most profitable one. Nevertheless, a drop in the ratings of Neymar is indicative of market trends changing, and injuries and loss of playing time negatively influence the potential of earning revenue.
Ronaldo is currently said to be closing a new deal with Al-Nassr until 2027 and there is still talk that he and Messi may also feature in the next world cup in North America, which is another addition to a rivalry that is still defining football history.
