There is a lot more to playing sports than just skill and dedication, but there is also the monetary reward for your success. Today above all, the athletes are being paid incredible amounts of money through their salaries, endorsements, and a variety of business ventures. In addition today, we will find out who the ten highest-paid athletes are in the world in 2025, their paydays, and what makes them worth the money.
List of Highest-paid Players with their Salaries
| Rank | Player Name | Sport | Nationality | Earnings (USD) |
| 1 | Cristiano Ronaldo | Football | Portugal | $275 million |
| 2 | Jon Rahm | Golf | Spain | $100 million |
| 3 | Lionel Messi | Football | Argentine | $20.44 million |
| 4 | LeBron James | Basketball | United States | $52.63 million |
| 5 | Neymar | Football | Brazil | $107 million |
| 6 | Roger Federer | Tennis | Swiss | $95 million |
| 7 | Anthony Joshua | Boxing | British | $113.96 million |
| 8 | Kevin Durant | NBA | American | $54.28 million |
| 9 | Stephen Curry | Basketball | United States | $59.61 million |
| 10 | Kylian Mbappé | Football | France | $74.47 million |
You can check out more players’ salaries at: https://themoneyleak.com/
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is a global ambassador for sports in part because of his phenomenal skill and in part because of his enormous payday. In fact, Cristiano Ronaldo was the highest-paid athlete with an unbelievable payday of $275 million. His payday includes his salary at Al Nassr, sponsorship deals with various brands, and business pursuits. He has achieved iconic brand status which has made him desirable for sponsorship deals.
2. Jon Rahm
Golf has garnered quite a bit of attention, and Jon Rahm is part of the reason. In 2025 Rahm was the second highest-paid athlete with an annual earning of $100 million. Rahm’s earnings are from his success on the PGA Tour, along with endorsement deals with some of the biggest brands. Rahm’s ability to engage and connect with fans while delivering on the golf course has provided him with a reputation as one of the best athletes.
3. Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi is another soccer player who has made headlines for both his talent and paycheques. In 2025, Messi had $20.44m in earnings, and you’ll see he was ranked among the highest-paid athletes. When he transferred to Inter Miami, it significantly expanded his earning potential, both based on his salary and endorsements. Messi’s international brand power and global stature as one of the greatest players of the game mean lots of brands are willing to partner with him.
4. LeBron James
Lebron James is a prominent figure in the world of basketball, and his career continues to flourish. In 2025, he earned approximately $52.63 million. His earnings come from his fights as well as lucrative endorsement deals with major brands. James’s impressive athleticism and knockout power have made him a fan favorite, while his charisma and dedication to the sport have solidified his status as a global icon.
5. Neymar Jr.
Neymar Jr. has also made a notable impact both on and off the soccer field. In addition, he earned $ 107 million in 2025. His time at Paris Saint-Germain has been lucrative, and endorsements with major brands have further increased his income. Neymar’s flair and style have made him popular with fans and brands alike.
6. Roger Federer
Even after retiring from professional tennis the Roger Federer’s earnings have remained high. Moreover, Federer earned $95 million in this year, mainly from endorsements. His long-term partnerships with brands like Uniqlo and Rolex have kept him in the spotlight. Federer’s elegance and sportsmanship have made him a timeless figure in sports.
7. Anthony Joshua
Anthony Joshua is one of the biggest names in boxing and continues to grow his sport. In 2025, he brought in around $113.96m. His earnings came from both his fights and from endorsements with some of the biggest brands in the world. Joshua is very good, as an athlete, to watch with his athleticism and knockout power, and he is likeable with his charisma and respect to the sport and boxing community as a whole.
8. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant is not only a star player in the NBA but also a smart businessman. In fact, Durant earned $54.28 million in 2025. His salary from the Phoenix Suns and also paired with endorsements and investments, has made him one of the highest-paid athletes. Durant’s ability to connect with fans and his entrepreneurial spirit have contributed to his financial success.
9. Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry has changed basketball with his shooting abilities, and his earnings reflect his impact. In addition, Curry earned $59.61 million in 2025. His salary from the Golden State Warriors, along with endorsements, places him among the top earners in sports. Curry’s popularity and marketability have made him a favorite for brands.
10. Kylian Mbappé
Kylian Mbappé is one of soccer’s brightest young stars, and his earnings are climbing. In 2025, he earned $74.47 million. His salary from Paris Saint-Germain, along with endorsements, has contributed to his growing wealth. Mbappé’s talent and charisma have made him a global sensation, drawing attention from fans and brands alike.
However, the world of sports is filled with incredible talent and the financial rewards that accompany it. The ten highest-paid athletes showcase the blend of skill, marketability, and business savvy. As these athletes continue to excel in their sports, their earnings are likely to increase. The sports landscape is evolving, and so are the opportunities for athletes to maximize their earning potential.
