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In 2025, the world’s most admired athletes are not only defined by their talent on the field but also by their global influence and impact as business moguls, and in this article, Pulse Sports analyses the athletes with the most fans in the world.
The world of sports has greatly evolved, and in 2025, athletes are not only defined by their talent but also their influence off the tracks and pitches.
Nowadays, athletes have turned their talents into businesses, including being brand influencers, philanthropists, and media moguls.
While they may shine in team sports like football and basketball, others from individual disciplines like track and field have carved out legendary status through their achievements and their personalities.
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17:30 - 04.05.2025
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In this article, Pulse Sports Kenya provides a detailed look at seven athletes with the most fans in the world, combining social media influence, sporting success, and cultural impact.
1) Lionel Messi
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Widely regarded as the best footballer in the world, Lionel Messi has over 500 million followers on Instagram and is loved by fans from across the globe.
He is mostly known from GOAT debates alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, and he is also one of the playmaking geniuses. Lionel Messi is also one of the humblest personalities.
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14:45 - 04.05.2025
‘He Motivates Me’ -Rising Stars Forward Lawrence Okoth Dedicates Kenya's First-Ever AFCON U20 Goal to Michael Olunga
Rising Stars forward Lawrence Okoth, who has been dubbed the new Michael Olunga due to their similar playing styles, has dedicated his maiden AFCON U20 goal to the Harambee Stars captain.
He remains Cristiano Ronaldo’s closest rival both on and off the field, and with the millions of followers on his social media platforms, Messi’s popularity is driven not only by his sporting greatness but also by his authenticity and humility.
After claiming the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Lionel Messi became a national hero without a doubt. He also became a global ambassador for football.
Since moving to Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer, Messi has significantly boosted soccer’s profile in the United States. His presence in MLS has drawn record ticket sales, jersey purchases, and international broadcasting deals.
2) Cristiano Ronaldo
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Cristiano Ronaldo has more than 600 million followers on his Instagram, and he remains a world-class goal scorer, brand mogul, and fitness icon.
Cristiano Ronaldo is undeniably the most followed athlete in the world, but when it comes to fans, Messi beats him to it.
The Portuguese forward is the undisputed king of social media and has an incredible athleticism that gets fans talking.
Ronaldo is also extremely dedicated to health and fitness and has inspired fans from all over the world to embrace healthy lifestyles.
Even at 40, Ronaldo continues to compete at a high level in Saudi Arabia's Al-Nassr FC. Off the pitch, Cristiano Ronaldo is a global business mogul.
His CR7 brand includes clothing, fragrance lines, gyms, and even a chain of hotels and he recently co-founded the film studio.
3) Virat Kohli
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Cricket might not be one of the most prominent sports in the world but Virat Kohli is and has gathered thousands of fans, making the sport gain recognition steadily.
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22:00 - 29.04.2025
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Virat Kohli has more than 200 million followers and is known for his cricketing excellence and fitness discipline.
He is undoubtedly the most followed cricketer on Earth and arguably the most famous Indian athlete alive. He commands an enormous fan base in South Asia, where cricket is more than a sport.
He maintains a disciplined lifestyle, aggressive batting, and leadership skills have made him a generational role model.
Off the field, he runs fitness ventures and is involved in several charitable initiatives with his wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma.
4) LeBron James
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LeBron James, one of the best basketball players to ever exist, commands a huge following on social media and is known for his NBA dominance, philanthropy, and activism.
He is the most followed American athlete and remains one of the most influential sports figures in history.
He has won four NBA titles, four MVP awards, but has also had a lot of off-court impact. LeBron James also has a major media presence, having launched the SpringHill Company, a production studio.
He has also been a powerful voice in social justice movements and a symbol of modern athlete empowerment, making him a darling of the fans.
5) Usain Bolt
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Usain Bolt is one of the greatest sprinters to ever walk this earth, and fans know and believe it, too. With more than 10 million followers on Instagram, Usain Bolt has a commanding presence.
Even after his retirement, Usain Bolt remains a fan favourite, as he retired as the fastest man alive, holding world records in the 100m and 200m.
Usain Bolt also has eight Olympic gold medals and 11 world championship titles to his name, making him one of the best.
He was more than just an athlete, as he was also a global phenomenon. His charismatic celebrations made him beloved by fans across the globe.
His Instagram presence, music ventures, and legacy in global athletics continue to shine. Usain Bolt is also actively involved in sports mentorship and community work in Jamaica.
6) Noah Lyles
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Noah Lyles is mostly known for his bold personality and seemingly being the face of US track and field. The American sprinter is loved and hated in equal measure, but that is no bother as he chases records and continues making waves on the world stage.
Following the retirement of sprinting greats like Justin Gatlin and Tyson Gay, Noah Lyles has taken over and is becoming a fast-rising global sports celebrity.
After winning the 100m gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Noah Lyles saw his Instagram followers skyrocket by over 200,000 in a single day, but his influence goes far beyond numbers.
The triple world champion is known for his outspoken views, stylish flair, and fearless confidence. He is never afraid to speak up about mental health, athlete rights, and race.
7) Serena Williams
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Serena Williams has more than 15 million followers on Instagram and remains one of the most accomplished sportspeople on and off the court.
She is a 23-time Grand Slam champion and businesswoman who stands out as one of the most iconic athletes in history, male or female.
Her dominance in tennis, powerful presence, and cultural impact have made her a household name globally.
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23:45 - 30.04.2025
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Even after her retirement in 2022, Serena Williams remains incredibly influential through her ventures in fashion, venture capital, and advocacy for women and minority communities.
Being a top athlete in 2025 is not just about medals or goals. It is about building a brand, connecting with fans, and inspiring the world.
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