Football 2025 Earnings Ranking: Cristiano Ronaldo Leads in Salary, Messi Tops in Commercial Value

Forbes announced the highest-paid footballers for 2025 on October 16. Cristiano Ronaldo, aged 40, dominates in yearly salary and total earnings by a wide margin. Meanwhile, 38-year-old Messi has a greater commercial worth than Ronaldo, uniquely earning more off the pitch than on it. Benzema, with a $100 million salary, out-earns Mbappé to secure third place.

Top 10 Football Players by Income in 2025:

• 1st: Cristiano Ronaldo, 40 years old, total earnings of $280 million = $230 million from playing + $50 million from endorsements.
• 2nd: Messi, 38 years old, total earnings of $130 million = $60 million from playing + $70 million from endorsements.
• 3rd: Benzema, 37 years old, total earnings of $104 million = $100 million from playing + $4 million from endorsements.
• 4th: Mbappé, 26 years old, total earnings of $95 million = $70 million from playing + $25 million from endorsements.
• 5th: Haaland, 25 years old, total earnings of $80 million = $60 million from playing + $20 million from endorsements.
• 6th: Vinícius Jr., 25 years old, total earnings of $60 million = $40 million from playing + $20 million from endorsements.
• 7th: Salah, 33 years old, total earnings of $55 million = $35 million from playing + $20 million from endorsements.
• 8th: Mané, 33 years old, total earnings of $54 million = $50 million from playing + $4 million from endorsements.
• 9th: Bellingham, 22 years old, total earnings of $44 million = $29 million from playing + $15 million from endorsements.
• 10th: Yamal, 18 years old, total earnings of $43 million = $33 million from playing + $10 million from endorsements.