In 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo remains slightly richer than Lionel Messi, with a net worth of about $923 million compared to Messi’s $850 million. Ronaldo’s higher earnings come from lucrative contracts, endorsements, and global ventures like his move to Saudi Arabia. Messi still earns heavily from sponsorships and his stake in Miami, but Ronaldo’s diversified income keeps him on top. Want to discover more about how each athlete built their wealth and future plans?
Key Takeaways
- Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth (~$923 million) surpasses Lionel Messi’s (~$850 million) by about $70 million in 2025.
- Ronaldo’s recent lucrative contract with Al-Nassr and endorsement deals boost his overall wealth more than Messi’s.
- Ronaldo’s global market expansion and business ventures contribute significantly to his higher net worth.
- Messi’s strategic investments and ownership stake in Inter Miami enhance his financial growth, but still trail Ronaldo’s total.
- Overall, Ronaldo currently leads the 2025 rich list among footballers due to higher earnings and endorsement income.
When comparing Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, two of the greatest footballers of all time, their financial success is as impressive as their on-field achievements. In 2025, Ronaldo’s net worth stands at approximately $923 million, edging out Messi’s $850 million by about $70 million. Both athletes have built their fortunes through a combination of high-paying contracts, endorsement deals, and savvy investments. Ronaldo’s wealth is slightly higher, reflecting his consistent earning power and lucrative sponsorships, while Messi’s net worth has nearly doubled over the past decade, highlighting stable growth and expanding market appeal.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth surpasses Lionel Messi’s, driven by high-paying contracts and lucrative endorsements in 2025.
Ronaldo’s contracts have historically been some of the richest in football. His recent deal with Saudi Arabian club Al-Nassr reportedly exceeds $200 million annually, including commercial arrangements. His previous contracts with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and now Al-Nassr have set benchmarks for athlete earnings. Off the pitch, Ronaldo earns around $45 million per year from endorsements with brands like Nike, Armani, and Herbalife, making him one of the most marketable sports figures globally. His endorsement income surpasses that of Messi in many respects, contributing substantially to his overall net worth.
Messi, meanwhile, has also secured impressive deals. His contract with Inter Miami includes bonuses, potential ownership shares, and profit cuts from partnerships with Apple and Adidas. Although his endorsement earnings are slightly lower at about $30 million annually, Messi’s off-field income still contributes heavily to his wealth, which increases by roughly $50-$70 million each year. His enduring popularity and cultural relevance have helped him maintain a high profile, attracting lucrative sponsorships that bolster his income streams.
Both players have extended their careers into markets with growing football audiences, such as Ronaldo’s venture into Saudi Arabia and Messi’s move to Major League Soccer in the United States. Their marketability has enabled them to diversify income beyond salaries, with business ventures and investments adding to their wealth. Messi’s ownership stakes and profit-sharing in Miami demonstrate a strategic approach to wealth accumulation, while Ronaldo’s diverse brand partnerships and investments show his financial acumen.
Despite recent pay cuts—Messi’s from PSG and Ronaldo’s from Manchester United—their overall earning potential remains enormous. Their physical fitness and continued high performance keep their market value intact, helping them secure top-tier contracts and endorsement deals. As they transition into different markets and business ventures, their long-term financial influence is likely to grow, cementing their status as two of the wealthiest athletes in history. Additionally, their understanding of zodiac sign personality traits and career strategies has played a role in their success, as both have demonstrated traits associated with leadership and determination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do Their Endorsement Deals Compare in 2025?
You’re curious about how Ronaldo’s and Messi’s endorsement deals stack up in 2025. Ronaldo secures deals with 36 brands across various sectors, earning about $15 million from endorsements, boosting his total income to around $275 million. Messi also ranks among the top earners with high-value sponsorships, mainly in sports apparel and luxury sectors. While Ronaldo’s social media reach amplifies his endorsement value, Messi maintains strong brand partnerships, keeping both athletes at the top of endorsement earnings.
What Are Their Latest Philanthropic Efforts?
Imagine a beacon of hope shining across the globe—that’s Cristiano Ronaldo’s latest philanthropic efforts. You see him donating millions to disaster relief, funding healthcare, and supporting vulnerable children and refugees. He quickly responds to crises like earthquakes and pandemics, leveraging his influence to raise awareness. Through global campaigns and personal contributions, Ronaldo’s commitment paints a vivid picture of compassion, turning his fame into tangible change for those in need.
How Do Their Post-Retirement Plans Differ?
You see, their post-retirement plans differ quite a bit. Ronaldo plans to keep playing until at least 2027, motivated by enjoyment and physical youth, aiming to own a football club afterward. Meanwhile, Messi’s future focuses on coaching, media, or charity work, with no fixed timeline. Ronaldo’s entrepreneurial ambitions stand out, while Messi leans toward staying connected to football through non-playing roles.
Which of Them Has More Social Media Followers in 2025?
You’re curious about who has more followers in 2025. Cristiano Ronaldo leads with approximately 660-661 million Instagram followers, gaining 8 million just this year. His account is highly active, making him the most followed individual on the platform, surpassing Messi by over 150 million followers. Meanwhile, Messi has around 506 million followers, ranking third overall. Ronaldo’s rapid growth and engagement give him a clear social media dominance.
What Are Their Recent Business Ventures?
You’re curious about their recent business ventures, right? Cristiano Ronaldo has expanded his empire with the CR7 brand, selling apparel and fragrances worldwide, and co-owning hotels and gyms that reflect his active lifestyle. He’s also invested heavily in healthcare with Insparya clinics, and diversified into luxury goods, media, real estate, and private jets. These ventures show Ronaldo’s focus on branding, wellness, and luxury markets, solidifying his post-football success.
Conclusion
As the battle for riches heats up, Ronaldo and Messi continue to chase their dreams like stars racing across the night sky. While one may edge ahead in the 2025 list, remember, their legacies shine brighter than any paycheck. It’s a game of inches, but their passion keeps us captivated. In the end, it’s not just about wealth, but the magic they bring to the beautiful game that keeps us watching with bated breath.
