From Cristiano Ronaldoâs unmatched global following to Lionel Messiâs humble yet massive fanbase, and from Virat Kohliâs cricketing charisma to LeBron Jamesâ cross-industry influence â the worldâs top athletes have become more than sports icons; they are full-fledged digital brands. In this article, we reveal the 10 most-followed athletes on social media in 2025, exploring how their online personas continue to captivate audiences and redefine the relationship between sports, fame, and the digital age.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Total followers (2025): 939.4 million
Year-over-year growth: +3.45%
Even those uninterested in football recognize Cristiano Ronaldoâs global presence. With nearly 940 million followers, he remains the most influential athlete online. On Instagram alone, Ronaldo commands over 653 million followers, followed by 171 million on Facebook and 115.4 million on Twitter (X). Beyond his athletic fame, he has built a powerful personal brand through ventures like his own underwear and lifestyle line, solidifying his place as the undisputed leader of sports social media. Actually, itâs confirmed by the stats that itâs impossible to reach this type of popularity, other than buying IG followers for a regular person or start-up companies.
2. Lionel Messi
Total followers (2025): 622 million
Year-over-year growth: +0.65%
A quiet figure off the field but an icon on it, Lionel Messi continues to inspire millions around the world. The Argentine world champion has 505 million Instagram followers and 117 million fans on Facebook, totaling 622 million across platforms. Despite not having an official Twitter account, his reach remains unmatched â second only to Ronaldo â with consistent, organic growth in 2025.
3. Virat Kohli
Total followers (2025): 389.7 million
Year-over-year growth: +2.10%
Representing cricket on this list is Indiaâs own Virat Kohli, one of the sportâs most charismatic figures. With 271 million followers on Instagram, 67.7 million on Twitter, and 51 million on Facebook, Kohliâs total reach is 390 million. His popularity extends beyond the game through philanthropy â his foundation focuses on supporting underprivileged communities, further enhancing his global image.
4. Neymar Jr.
Total followers (2025): 384.1 million
Year-over-year growth: +2.07%
Brazilian star Neymar Jr. remains one of the most followed and talked-about athletes worldwide. Currently playing for Santos F.C., he maintains an extraordinary social media presence: 231 million followers on Instagram, 91 million on Facebook, and 64.1 million on Twitter. His blend of charisma, creativity, and flair both on and off the pitch keeps him firmly among the worldâs digital elite.
5. LeBron James
Total followers (2025): 239 million
Year-over-year growth: +0.08%
Basketballâs global ambassador, LeBron âKingâ James, continues to dominate both the NBA and social platforms. Playing for the Los Angeles Lakers, he engages a combined audience of 239 million across Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Known for his activism and business ventures, LeBronâs online influence goes far beyond basketball.
6. Kylian Mbappé
Total followers (2025): 154.8 million
Year-over-year growth: +7.87%
Franceâs superstar Kylian MbappĂ© has become the face of footballâs next generation. After an outstanding World Cup performance and a high-profile move to Real Madrid, his online following skyrocketed by nearly 8% year over year. With 154.8 million fans, MbappĂ©âs digital presence reflects his growing dominance in both the sport and the media landscape.
7. Ronaldinho
Total followers (2025): 154.5 million
Year-over-year growth: +0.65%
Even years after retirement, Ronaldinho GaĂșcho continues to enchant fans across the world. The Brazilian legend, known for his dazzling smile and unmatched creativity, boasts 154.5 million followers across his platforms. His consistent popularity shows that true talent â and charm â never fades.
8. David Beckham
Total followers (2025): 145.1 million
Year-over-year growth: -0.14%
Former English football icon David Beckham remains a major cultural figure. Despite a slight drop in followers, he still commands 145.1 million fans on Facebook and Instagram. His brand partnerships, philanthropic activities, and continued presence in global fashion and business make him one of the most marketable athletes of all time.
9. Karim Benzema
Total followers (2025): 142.2 million
Year-over-year growth: 0%
Karim Benzema, the French-Algerian striker now playing for Al-Ittihad Jeddah Club in Saudi Arabia, continues to maintain a solid following of 142.2 million. Although he has stepped back from international football, his fans remain loyal, reflecting his long-standing influence on and off the pitch.
10. Sergio Ramos
Total followers (2025): 125 million
Year-over-year growth: +2.80%
Spanish defender Sergio Ramos, currently playing for C.F. Monterrey in Mexicoâs top division, rounds out the top 10. With a total of 125 million followers across Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, he continues to capture attention not only for his leadership and legacy but also for his authentic connection with fans online.
