Lent.az
When Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo decided to extend his contract with the Saudi Arabian Pro League representative Al-Nassr club, the incredible amount of his contract left many in awe: He is reportedly earning $645,000 a day.
After the official announcement, Ronaldo wrote on Instagram: "A new chapter begins. Same passion, same desire. Let's write history together."
Lent.az reports that according to the German analytical platform Statista, Cristiano Ronaldo is the world's highest-paid footballer in 2025 with an estimated income of $275 million (data updated as of May 2025).
The ranking of the world's highest-paid footballers in 2025 is as follows:
• Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr) - $275 million
He continues to defy age, taking both the team and the world financial rankings to the top. His high-profile move to Saudi Arabia has significantly increased his income and solidified his status as a football and financial icon.
• Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) - $135 million
The Argentine genius has brought his incredible talent and charisma to MLS. His lucrative deal with Inter Miami, which includes a share of commercial revenue, demonstrates Messi's enormous marketing power that extends far beyond Europe.
• Karim Benzema (Al-Ittihad) - $104 million
The Ballon d'Or winner Benzema received one of the most generous contracts in football history after moving to Al-Ittihad. In addition to earning unprecedented sums, he continues to delight fans with his skill.
• Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid) - $90 million
The French wunderkind has finally fulfilled his dream of moving to Real Madrid. Despite a slight salary cut from his PSG contract, lucrative and large sponsorship deals have secured his place among the income elite.
• Neymar (Santos) - $76 million
Although the Brazilian "showman" has returned to his home club Santos, his income remains substantial. While his salary at the club has decreased, Neymar's global brand and impressive number of advertising deals allow him to remain among football's financial leaders.
