- Ronaldo earns a staggering $275 million, remaining the highest-paid athlete globally.
- Cristiano Jr. debuts for Portugal U-15, following in his father’s legendary footsteps.
- The combined income of the top ten highest-paid athletes hits a record-breaking $1.38 billion.
Cristiano Ronaldo has solidified his position as the world‘s highest-paid athlete for the third consecutive year. He amassed $275 million in 2025, according to Forbes.
While Ronaldo reigns financially, his 14-year-old son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., is making his own mark on the football field. The budding forward recently debuted for Portugal’s U-15 team, coming on as a substitute in a 4-1 victory over Japan.
From Top Earner to Proud Father: Ronaldo’s Dual Legacy
Cristiano Ronaldo has yet again claimed the title of the world’s highest-paid athlete in 2025, with earnings totaling $275 million. This is his fifth time topping Forbes’ prestigious list. It serves as a testament to his enduring global appeal. The bulk of his income stems from his lucrative contract with Al-Nassr. This is supplemented by endorsements with high-profile brands like Nike and Binance.
Ronaldo’s financial success underscores a broader trend: the increasing economic clout of elite athletes. The top ten highest-paid athletes collectively earned a record-breaking $1.38 billion this year. Fellow sports icons like Stephen Curry, Tyson Fury, and Lionel Messi also crossed the $100 million threshold. This reinforces the lucrative intersection of sports and brand endorsements.
Off the pitch, Ronaldo is also celebrating a personal milestone. His son, Cristiano Jr., made his international debut for Portugal’s U-15 national team in a youth tournament against Japan. The 14-year-old forward has previously trained with the youth academies of Manchester United and Juventus. He is following his father’s career trajectory closely.
The proud father took to social media to congratulate his son, expressing his joy over the accomplishment. Ronaldo’s post highlighted the emotional resonance of witnessing his son don the Portugal jersey. It is a symbolic continuation of his own storied career.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence extends beyond his own career. His son begins to carve his path in the football world, potentially heralding a new era for the Ronaldo legacy.
“Success isn’t given. It’s earned. On the track, on the field, in the gym. With blood, sweat, and the occasional tear.” — Nike
