The world of sports is not only measured in goals, knockouts or titles: it is also measured in millionaire incomes. And in 2025, Sportico’ s ranking of the 100 highest paid athletes of the year confirmed a major change at the top: Cristiano Ronaldo returned to number one, while Mexico’s Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez moved above Lionel Messi, leaving a clear picture of the global impact of soccer and boxing in and out of the ring.
According to that list, Cristiano Ronaldo remained the highest paid athlete for the third consecutive year, with estimated revenues of US$260 million. His presence as an international figure, his performance on the field and his commercial strength have made him a global brand that continues to generate record figures.
Canelo moves up to second place
The big surprise came right behind:
Canelo Álvarez appeared as the second highest paid behind Cristiano Ronaldo.
With revenues close to 137 million dollars, surpassing world-class media figures such as Messi.
The Mexican boxer remains one of the most profitable names in the sport due to the combination of million-dollar purse and his value as a brand icon in the Latin market.
Especially in the United States, where its popularity carries enormous weight.
In third place was Lionel Messi, with around $130 million, up from the previous tally.
The Argentine continues to be a dominant figure in the soccer business, with great earning power beyond the field of play.
Latin power makes itself felt
(Cristiano Ronaldo) He is a global brand that continue to generate record-breaking figures
QuéOnnda.com
Another key name for U.S. Hispanic audiences is Juan Soto.
He came in strong in the rankings and ranked fourth with $129.2 million, boosted by his deal with the New York Mets.
Its presence in the world top confirms that baseball can also compete economically with more global sports.
The top 10 is completed by LeBron James, Karim Benzema, Stephen Curry, Shohei Ohtani, Kevin Durant and Jon Rahm.
In a list that reflects not only the sporting salary, but also the enormous weight of sponsorships, contracts and parallel businesses.
For Hispanics living in the United States, this ranking makes one thing clear:
The Latin influence in world sport is not symbolic, it is economic.
With Canelo, Messi and Soto all ranking in the top spots behind Cristiano Ronaldo, the Hispanic market continues to be one of the most powerful audiences for leagues, sponsors and sports stars.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
