Virat Kohli and Cristiano Ronaldo are two of the biggest names in global sports, commanding not just massive fan bases on the field but also enormous influence off it—especially on social media. The duo’s staggering Instagram followings translate into impressive earnings per sponsored post, making them among the highest-paid influencers on the platform.
Cristiano Ronaldo: The Undisputed Instagram King
Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo continues to reign supreme on Instagram. As of 2024, Ronaldo had amassed more than 658 million followers, making him the most followed individual on the platform. According to a report published by Influencer Marketing Hub, Ronaldo topped the Instagram Rich List for 2024, earning approximately $3,234,000 (₹27.66 crore) for every sponsored post.
His unmatched global appeal, consistent performances on the pitch, and luxury lifestyle off it make Ronaldo an irresistible brand for advertisers. His Instagram page is filled with high-end endorsements, workout routines, and glimpses into his life, attracting brands across various industries—from sportswear to luxury watches.
Virat Kohli: India’s Social Media Powerhouse
Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli isn’t far behind when it comes to social media influence. With over 278 million followers, Kohli holds the record for being the most followed Asian and the most followed cricketer in the world on Instagram. The same Influencer Marketing Hub report revealed that Kohli was the only Indian to make it into the top 20 Instagram earners in 2024.
He reportedly charges around $1,384,000 (₹11.85 crore) per sponsored Instagram post—more than international stars like Nicki Minaj, Kourtney Kardashian, and even Brazilian football legend Neymar Jr. Kohli’s Instagram combines a mix of brand endorsements, personal moments, and cricket-related content that resonates deeply with his fan base.
Breaking Records Off the Field
Virat Kohli’s Instagram influence reached new heights after India’s dramatic win in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. His celebratory post with the trophy garnered over 22 million likes, making it the most liked Instagram post by an Indian at the time. Although this record was later surpassed by content creator Shobhit Gour, it remains a testament to Kohli’s massive online presence.
Ronaldo vs Kohli: The Earnings Comparison
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Athlete | Instagram Followers (2025) | Earnings Per Post (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Cristiano Ronaldo | 658+ million | $3,234,000 (₹27.66 crore) |
| Virat Kohli | 278+ million | $1,384,000 (₹11.85 crore) |
Clearly, Cristiano Ronaldo earns significantly more per post, nearly 2.3 times that of Virat Kohli. However, it’s worth noting that Kohli’s reach and impact, particularly in the Asian market, make him a highly sought-after digital influencer in his own right.
Final Verdict
While Cristiano Ronaldo leads the race when it comes to per-post earnings on Instagram, Virat Kohli stands tall as the top social media earner from India and among cricketers worldwide. Both athletes exemplify how sporting excellence, when combined with digital savvy, can translate into immense financial success off the field.
