The magazine said 31-year-old Dhoni moved up 15 positions this year. In 2012, he was placed at 31st position.
The influential business magazine estimated that Dhoni made USD 31.5 million over the last year from prize money and endorsements.
37-year-old Woods made USD 78.1 million followed by Tennis star Roger Federer at USD 71.5 million. Kobe Bryant, American professional basketball player, is third at USD 61.9 million.
Federer had topped the 2012 list.
This year's 100-strong list features just three women led by Tennis ace Maria Sharapova, who ranks No 22 with earnings of USD 29 million.
Sharapova is joined by No 68 Serena Williams, who raked in USD 20.5 million, including USD 8.5 million in prize money, while China's Li Na ranks 85th overall with earnings of USD 18.2 million.