Who Are the Most Followed Athletes on Instagram?

By Lisa Spencer Senior Editor Updated: 17 April 2023

Lisa Spencer Senior Editor

As a Senior Editor at Betting.US, Lisa Spencer is a valuable member of our expert team. With a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics, Lisa is adept in gambling theory and analyzing odds. She contributes by writing online sportsbook reviews and finding competitive markets to help our readers make an informed choice.

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• The Most Followed Athletes on Instagram
• Athletes with the Most Instagram Followers
• Cristiano Ronaldo – 520 Million
• Lionel Messi – 407 Million
• Virat Kohli – 228 Million
• Neymar Jr. – 197 Million
• Lebron James – 139 Million
• David Beckham – 76.5 Million
• Kylian Mbappé – 88.5 Million
• Ronaldinho – 70.1 Million
• Marcelo Viera Jr. – 58.3 Million
• Frequently Asked Questions

In a world where social media presence is key, these sports stars have captured the hearts of millions. Athletes rack up millions of followers – but who has the most? Let’s explore the lives, accomplishments, and incredible follower counts of these top athletes who’ve conquered the world of sports and social media alike.

The Most Popular Instagram Athletes

In this post, we’ll uncover the top athletes who have amassed colossal followings on Instagram. Among them are soccer legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, cricket hero Virat Kohli, and other sports icons like Neymar Jr, LeBron James, David Beckham, Kylian Mbappé, Ronaldinho, and Marcelo Vieira Jr. We’ll dive into their backgrounds, achievements, and what makes them so captivating to their millions of fans. Ready to discover who the most followed athletes on Instagram are?

Athletes with the Most Instagram Followers

Before we present our list of the most popular Instagram athletes, let’s take a moment to appreciate the impact they’ve had on their respective sports and the world at large. As role models, inspirations, and influencers, they’ve transcended the boundaries of the game and made a lasting impression on generations of fans.

This is exactly how the athletes with the most Instagram followers have gained so many social media fans – and to top off the list, it’s Cristiano Ronaldo!

Cristiano Ronaldo – 520 Million

Arguably the greatest soccer player ever, Cristiano Ronaldo has an astonishing 520 million followers on Instagram. The Portuguese forward has played for elite clubs like Sporting Lisbon, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, and now Al-Nassr, winning numerous domestic and international titles.

With five Ballon d’Or awards, Ronaldo’s mesmerizing skills, unmatched work ethic, and philanthropic endeavors make him a beloved figure worldwide. As a father, businessman, and model, Ronaldo’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. His fitness regimen, dedication to his craft, and relentless pursuit of greatness inspire fans across the globe.

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Lionel Messi – 407 Million

Crowned the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) by many, Lionel Messi boasts an impressive following of 407 million on Instagram. His incredible dribbling skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability have mesmerized fans throughout his illustrious career. Messi spent over 20 years at FC Barcelona before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.

With six Ballon d’Or titles and numerous other accolades, Messi has solidified his status as a living legend. Off the field, Messi engages in philanthropic work through the Leo Messi Foundation, focusing on education and healthcare for vulnerable children. His humility and devotion to family make him an admired role model for fans of all ages.

Virat Kohli – 228 Million

Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli has a staggering 228 million Instagram followers. As a batsman, he’s renowned for his aggressive style, consistency, and technical prowess.

Kohli has captained the Indian cricket team and Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, breaking numerous records and earning a massive fan base for his on-field brilliance and commitment to fitness.

In addition to his cricketing achievements, Kohli is a vocal advocate for healthy living and has launched his own clothing line, WROGN. Married to Indian actress Anushka Sharma, Kohli’s personal life and off-field ventures also draw considerable attention.

Neymar Jr. – 197 Million

Brazilian soccer prodigy Neymar Jr. has captured the hearts of 197 million Instagram followers with his exceptional dribbling skills and flair for the game. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazilian national team, Neymar has established himself as a force to be reckoned with.

Off the field, his charismatic personality, fashion sense, and philanthropic efforts contribute to his massive appeal. Neymar has also delved into acting, appearing in popular Brazilian television shows and movies. His friendship with fellow athletes and celebrities further solidifies his status as a global icon.

Lebron James – 139 Million

NBA legend LeBron James enjoys a following of 139 million on Instagram. Known for his extraordinary athleticism, vision, and versatility, LeBron has won four NBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and four MVP awards.

Off the court, he’s an influential activist, philanthropist, and entrepreneur. Through his LeBron James Family Foundation, he’s made significant contributions to education and community development.

LeBron has also ventured into the entertainment industry, starring in the movie “Space Jam: A New Legacy” and producing various television shows and documentaries.

David Beckham – 76.5 Million

Retired soccer icon David Beckham has a dedicated fan base of 76.5 million Instagram followers. His exceptional career included stints at Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, Paris Saint-Germain, and the English national team, where he earned numerous titles and accolades.

Beckham’s good looks, impeccable style, and successful ventures in fashion and philanthropy make him an enduring fan favorite. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Beckham has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of children worldwide.

His entrepreneurial endeavors include co-owning Inter Miami CF, a Major League Soccer team, and co-founding the grooming brand House 99. His strong family values and devotion to his wife, Victoria Beckham, and their four children have made him a beloved figure both on and off the field.

Kylian Mbappé – 88.5 Million

At just 24 years old, French soccer sensation Kylian Mbappé has already amassed 88.5 million Instagram followers. The speedy forward has been a key player for Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team, winning the 2018 FIFA World Cup and multiple domestic league titles.

His electrifying performances, humble nature, and dedication to giving back to the community have earned him a rapidly growing fan base. As one of the most promising talents in soccer, Mbappé’s star continues to rise, and his influence on and off the pitch is undeniable.

He has also graced the covers of renowned magazines and collaborated with brands such as Nike and EA Sports, further establishing his status as a global sports icon. His performance in the FIFA World Cup Final in 2022 saw him widely revered around the world, and it’s no surprise that he’s one of the athletes with the most Instagram followers.

Ronaldinho – 70.1 Million

Brazilian soccer legend Ronaldinho boasts 70.1 million followers on Instagram, thanks to his incredible skills, charisma, and dazzling playing style. Best known for his time at FC Barcelona and AC Milan, Ronaldinho won numerous titles, including the 2005 Ballon d’Or.

His infectious smile, extraordinary tricks, and captivating personality have left an indelible mark on soccer history. Even in retirement, Ronaldinho continues to inspire and entertain fans around the globe with his philanthropic work and undeniable love for the beautiful game.

He frequently participates in charity matches and has launched his own line of soccer schools, the Ronaldinho Soccer Academy, to help nurture the next generation of soccer stars. He’s one of the most popular Instagram athletes, and for good reason!

Marcelo Viera Jr. – 58.3 Million

Fluminese’s ex-Real Madrid left-back Marcelo Vieira Jr has a following of 58.3 million on Instagram, making him a very popular Instagram athlete. Since joining the club in 2007, Marcelo has become a crucial part of the team, known for his exceptional defensive skills, attacking prowess, and leadership abilities.

With numerous domestic and international titles under his belt, Marcelo’s passion, dedication, and commitment to the sport have won him legions of fans. Off the pitch, his playful personality, close-knit family life, and philanthropic work endear him to millions worldwide.

Marcelo also serves as an ambassador for Adidas and other brands, further expanding his reach and influence as a renowned sports figure.

What athlete has the most Instagram followers? We’ve answered that – but below, we’ll show you a few more of the most popular Instagram athletes and how many people follow them.