Top 10 Global Icons on X (Twitter) in 2025: Modi vs Trump – The New Follower King Revealed
by: Kriti Anand
Social media today has become synonymous with influence. World leaders have found a willing audience on it for somewhat unfiltered communication, especially on X (formerly Twitter). The number of followers they have on the platform is often a measure of their popularity, and more importantly, their influence. The one who wields this power over people wins global attention. So let’s take a look at the top 10 people on X.
Elon Musk has been at number one for quite some time, and is still far ahead of the race with 221 million followers at present. From tech updates and political views to memes and personal thoughts, his tweets keep people hooked.
Next is Barack Obama with 130 million. The former US President still has a strong global presence. His posts are generally a measured commentary on current scenarios, thoughtful, and often about leadership and social issues.
In third place is football legend Cristiano Ronaldo with 115 million people following him. His on-field success and brand deals help him stay near the top. (In fact, he is the most-followed person with over 1 billion followers, if counted across all popular social media platforms.)
With the top three secure in their spot, comes a close race between celebrities and politicians.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has built a huge following in the nation, both online and offline. He has 108 million followers on X, and happens to be one of the only current heads of government in the top 10 list. He uses the platform to connect with people, using multiple languages to reach a greater audience and keep his account relatable. His promotion of public programs, updates on world events, messages for national festivals, are just some of the things that keep his followers interested.
At present Modi has even more following than the ex-US President Donald Trump, a strong contender for Modi in terms of popularity. Having taken a break from the platform, he has returned with more strategic campaign messaging, stark one-liners, and his usual bold (or controversial) opinions.
Donald Trump’s follower count of 107 million is growing steadily however, with a loyal base and as a result of upcoming US elections.
Trump is followed by a line of music icons, including Rihanna, with 107 million followers, Katy Perry with 104 million, and Taylor Swift with 93.6 millions. Their intense fan communities and music tours guarantee these stars’ popularity on social media.
The list of top 10 accounts with most followers ends with the only organisation in the list: NASA. The space agency has captivated and mesmerised audiences across the globe with astonishing space images, informative content, and discovery updates.
To conclude, in this age of social media, who becomes the global leader with the most followers can have real-world implications. It can determine the fate of the next elections, and it can shape their political careers. While Narendra Modi currently leads Trump, the gap is small and the platform volatile. Both the leaders have crucial elections to look forward to, and their digital strategies may have great impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the most-followed person on X (formerly Twitter) in 2025?
Elon Musk remains the most-followed person on X in 2025, with 221 million followers. His posts range from tech updates and political takes to memes and personal insights, attracting global attention.
How many followers does Narendra Modi have on X in 2025?
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has around 108 million followers, making him one of the most-followed active world leaders on the platform.
Is Donald Trump catching up with Narendra Modi in terms of followers?
Yes. Donald Trump currently has 107 million followers, just a million shy of Modi. With the upcoming US elections and his reactivated account, the gap may close soon.
Which celebrities are in the top 10 most-followed accounts on X?
Some of the top celebrity accounts include:
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Cristiano Ronaldo – 115 million
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Rihanna – 107 million
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Katy Perry – 104 million
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Taylor Swift – 93.6 million
These artists maintain their follower base through constant engagement and global fan reach.
Is there any non-individual (organization) in the top 10 list?
Yes. NASA is the only organization in the top 10, known for its breathtaking space visuals and scientific content. Its follower count rivals top public figures.
Why are follower counts on X important for world leaders?
Follower count on platforms like X represents digital influence. It helps leaders communicate directly with people, bypassing traditional media, and shaping public opinion—especially during election campaigns.
Does having more followers impact political outcomes?
It can. A larger digital audience can translate into greater influence, broader outreach, and a stronger connection with youth and undecided voters—factors that matter significantly in elections.
Has Donald Trump returned to X after his suspension?
Yes. Trump returned to X and has reignited his digital strategy using powerful campaign messages and controversial statements, regaining popularity fast.
How does Modi use X differently from others?
Modi uses X to connect with diverse audiences in multiple languages, sharing government initiatives, festival greetings, and international updates, which keeps his following deeply engaged.
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