Blog

In this post, we will check out the top 10 most followed athletes on Instagram in 2023

In the ever-evolving world of social media, Instagram has become a powerhouse platform for athletes to connect with their fans and showcase their lives beyond the field or court.

As we step into 2023, the competition for the most-followed athlete on Instagram has never been fiercer. These athletes have harnessed the power of captivating photos, engaging stories, and personal branding to amass a global following that transcends their sporting achievements.

Join us on a journey through the top 10 most-followed athletes on Instagram in 2023, as we explore their captivating feeds, their remarkable journeys, and the stories behind their online success.

From soccer superstars to basketball icons and beyond, these athletes have not only conquered their respective sports but have also conquered the digital realm, solidifying their status as true global icons.

Top 10 Most Followed Athletes On Instagram 2023

10. Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Zlatan Ibrahimovic does not need any introduction in this list. There’s no denying the fact that Zlatan has proved his worth in every league he has played in.

With his charismatic personality and remarkable skills, Ibrahimovic has amassed a massive following on Instagram, securing his place among the top 10 Instagram’s most-followed athletes in 2023.

Known for his confident demeanor and iconic style, Ibrahimovic has always had a larger-than-life presence both on and off the pitch. This larger-than-life persona has translated exceptionally well to his Instagram account, where he shares glimpses of his life, adventures, and moments of triumph with his millions of dedicated followers.

The power of Ibrahimovic’s social media presence is undeniable, with his follower count skyrocketing to incredible heights. As a football superstar with an illustrious career spanning across several top-tier clubs and national teams, Ibrahimovic’s appeal reaches far beyond his home country of Sweden.

In addition to his undeniable talent and his larger-than-life persona, Ibrahimovic’s Instagram success can also be attributed to his engaging and interactive approach. He frequently interacts with his followers, responding to comments, sharing their artwork, and occasionally providing glimpses into his training routines or personal life.

He is a fan favorite at each club and still ruling the charts when it comes to followers on Instagram. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is surely one of the best players in the world. He had 60.9M followers on Instagram. Zlatan is number 10 in our list of Instagram’s most followed athletes in 2023.

9. Marcelo Vieira

Marcelo Vieira, the Brazilian soccer sensation, has secured his place among the top 10 most followed athletes on Instagram in 2023, holding the 9th spot with a staggering 65.2 million followers.

Renowned as a formidable left-back for both the Brazilian national team and Paris Saint-Germain, Marcelo’s prowess on the pitch is unquestionable. However, it’s his magnetic social media presence that has endeared him to millions around the world.

On his Instagram feed, Marcelo offers fans an intimate glimpse into his life, sharing candid moments with family, friends, and teammates.

Beyond soccer, he delves into his personal interests, from music to fashion, fostering a deeper connection with his global fanbase. Marcelo’s remarkable Instagram popularity is a testament not only to his on-field talent but also to his innate ability to forge meaningful connections with admirers well beyond the soccer arena.

8. Ronaldinho

Ronaldinho is a retired Brazilian professional footballer who played for clubs such as Barcelona, Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. He is considered to be one of the best footballers of all time, and he has won numerous awards throughout his career.

He is currently ranked eighth on the list of the top 10 athletes with the most Instagram followers on the platform, behind such stars as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Dwayne Johnson.

Ronaldinho’s popularity on Instagram is likely due to his status as one of the most iconic footballers of all time. He was a key member of the Brazilian national team that won the World Cup in 2002, and he also played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Barcelona and AC Milan.

Ronaldinho was known for his incredible dribbling skills and his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. He was also a crowd favorite, thanks to his playful personality and his love of entertaining the fans.

The Brazilian magician is often regarded as one of the best of his generation and regarded by many as one of the greatest of all time. Ronaldinho is also the ambassador of Barcelona. He had 73.6M followers on Instagram.

7. David Beckham

David Beckham stands tall as one of the top 10 most followed athletes on Instagram in 2023, boasting a substantial following of nearly 82.8 million avid fans.

This British icon not only ranks among the most followed British celebrities on the platform but is also one of the footballing greats with a colossal Instagram presence.

Beckham’s legacy as an English football legend, highlighted by his unforgettable goals with Manchester United, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Beyond the pitch, fans are drawn to his engaging Instagram feed, which offers glimpses of his managerial role with Inter Miami and even his fitness routines, often with a shirt-off twist.

Beckham’s allure extends into the gaming world as well, with a strategic investment in eSports that promises to further amplify his standing among gamers.

With his equally famous wife, Victoria, who commands an additional 31 million followers on Instagram, the Beckham family represents a digital force to be reckoned with.

In 2023, this roster of the most followed athletes on Instagram underscores the extraordinary reach and popularity these sports luminaries have achieved, transcending their athletic accomplishments to build extensive digital communities and engage with their global fan base in unprecedented ways.

6. Kylian Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe plays as a forward for Ligue 1 club Paris Saint-Germain. There is no doubt that he is the best player for his club and country.

With his immense talent, charisma, and global appeal, Mbappe has captivated the hearts of football fans around the world. As a result, his social media presence has skyrocketed, earning him a place among the most popular athletes on Instagram.

Known for his lightning speed, exceptional skills, and remarkable goal-scoring ability, Mbappe has become a household name in the world of football. From his breakthrough performances in the FIFA World Cup to his stellar performances at Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team, Mbappe has consistently proven himself to be a remarkable talent.

On Instagram, Mbappe offers a glimpse into his extraordinary life as a professional footballer. Through his posts, he shares personal moments, behind-the-scenes glimpses of his training sessions, and exciting highlights from his matches. His authentic and engaging content resonates with fans, fostering a strong sense of connection and loyalty.

Through his posts and interactions, Mbappe inspires and motivates millions of individuals, leaving a lasting impact that extends far beyond the realm of sports. He is the biggest star in the making. His performance speaks of his capability as a player. He had 105M followers on Instagram.

5. LeBron James

LeBron James, the illustrious star of the Los Angeles Lakers, has undeniably etched his name in the annals of social media stardom. In a testament to his monumental online presence, LeBron has ascended to the pinnacle of NBA athletes on Instagram, boasting a staggering 158 million followers.

The dominance doesn’t end there, as reports from Sidelines.io affirm that LeBron James reigns supreme among the most renowned American athletes across various social media platforms in 2023.

LeBron’s global appeal transcends the realm of sports, as Pledge Sports acknowledges his digital reign, listing him among the 13 most followed athletes on Instagram in 2023.

LeBron James, it seems, has not only mastered the art of basketball but has also become a true icon in the world of social media, captivating millions around the globe.

4. Neymar

Neymar Jr., the Brazilian football sensation, has solidified his place among the crème de la crème of Instagram’s most-followed athletes in 2023, boasting an astounding 213 million loyal followers.

Renowned for his mesmerizing dribbling skills, innate creativity, and goal-scoring prowess, Neymar Jr. has cultivated an immense global fanbase that spans continents.

He’s not just an athlete; he’s a role model and an inspiration to countless aspiring football enthusiasts worldwide who yearn to emulate his remarkable journey.

Neymar Jr. has etched his name in history as the first Brazilian to cross the monumental milestone of 100 million followers on Instagram, a testament to his far-reaching appeal.

In the company of other sporting legends like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Virat Kohli, LeBron James, David Beckham, Kylian Mbappé, Ronaldinho, and Marcelo Vieira Jr., Neymar Jr. underscores the enduring impact these athletes have had on generations of fans.

Their ability to transcend the confines of the game and leave an indelible mark in the hearts of followers is precisely why they have amassed such colossal social media followings, uniting fans across the globe under the banner of sportsmanship and inspiration.

3. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli is an Indian cricketer and the current captain of the Indian national cricket team. He is widely considered to be one of the best batsmen in the world, and he has won numerous awards throughout his career.

As of June 2023, Kohli has over 250 million followers on the platform, making him the third-most-followed athlete on Instagram. Only Cristiano Ronaldo (585 million followers) and Lionel Messi (464 million followers) have more followers.

There are a number of reasons why Kohli is so popular on Instagram. First, he is a very successful cricketer. He is the captain of the Indian national team and one of the best batsmen in the world.

Second, Kohli is a very charismatic and engaging personality. He is known for his sense of humor and his willingness to interact with his fans. He often posts videos and photos of himself training, playing cricket, and spending time with his family.

Third, Kohli is very active on Instagram. He posts new content on a regular basis, and he always makes sure to engage with his followers in the comments. This makes him feel more accessible and relatable to his fans.

As a result of his popularity, Kohli has been able to use Instagram to his advantage. He has partnered with a number of brands, including Puma, Audi, and MRF. He has also used the platform to promote his own brand, Wrogn.

Kohli’s social media following is largely due to his large fanbase in India. In fact, he was the most followed Indian athlete on Instagram.

2. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is an Argentine professional footballer who plays for the Spanish club Barcelona and the Argentina national team. He is widely considered to be one of the best players in the world, and he has won numerous awards throughout his career.

As one of the most iconic athletes of his generation, Messi has amassed a massive following on Instagram, solidifying his position as one of the top 10 most followed athletes on the platform.

With his unparalleled talent and numerous accolades, Messi has garnered an immense global fan base that spans across continents. His Instagram account provides a unique window into his life, allowing fans to catch a glimpse of his personal moments, training routines, and philanthropic endeavors.

As an athlete, Messi’s influence extends far beyond the football pitch. His ability to connect with fans on a personal level through social media has undoubtedly played a crucial role in expanding his reach and maintaining a strong connection with his followers.

As one of the most followed athletes on Instagram, Messi’s impact goes beyond just his fans. His massive following also attracts the attention of sponsors and brands seeking to collaborate with influential figures.

The Argentine is a world-celebrated footballing legend and a very charismatic character on and off the pitch. It’s no surprise he ranks so highly on our list. He had 476M followers on Instagram.

1. Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese football maestro, has firmly cemented his status as the undisputed king of Instagram in 2023. With an astonishing 603 million followers and a remarkable 34% surge, amassing over 150 million new followers since May, Ronaldo’s digital reign knows no bounds.

His magnetic presence extends beyond the realm of athletics, as he claims the coveted title of the most followed individual on Instagram, eclipsing all other contenders.

Ronaldo’s penchant for making headlines isn’t confined to the pitch, as he’s known for stirring up controversy with candid statements, including claims of betrayal by Manchester United and bold declarations of his superiority over Lionel Messi.

This football icon doesn’t just dominate the field; he’s also the highest-earning personality on Instagram. It’s a testament to the global allure of the beautiful game, with eight footballers gracing the ranks of the top 10 most followed athletes on Instagram.

In the digital arena, Cristiano Ronaldo reigns supreme, captivating millions and redefining the art of personal branding on social media.