When it comes to global sports, few games can boast the same amount of passion, prestige, and paycheck as football. From the legendary stadiums in Europe to the manic crowds in South America, footballers are not just players. They are an icon. But who is the richest footballer in the world? In addition to players like Messi, Ronaldo, and Neymar, you’re also wondering about other names, and the answer could surprise you, because it goes well beyond goals and assists. Brand deals, family wealth, and business ventures help their astronomical net worths.
In this article, we will explore the current holder of the richest footballer in the world title as well as a narrowed down list of the richest footballers in the sport today.
List of the 10 Richest Footballers in the World:
10. Andrés Iniesta
About: A legend at FC Barcelona, Iniesta extended his career in Japan and then the UAE. Known for his elegant playing style, Iniesta has also been smart about business, co-owning a winery and other ventures that supplement his football earnings.
- Net Worth: $120 million
- Salary: $8 million
- Team: Emirates Club (UAE Pro League)
9. Mohamed Salah
About: The Egyptian King of Liverpool, Mohamed Salah’s rise to stardom has been accompanied by a significant increase in wealth. From performance bonuses to lucrative brand endorsements like Adidas and Pepsi, Salah continues to be one of the sport’s top earners.
- Net Worth: $90 million
- Salary: $35 million
- Team: Liverpool FC (Premier League)
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8. Wayne Rooney
About: An English football icon, Wayne Rooney earned his fortune from a successful career at Manchester United and later in Major League Soccer. Since retiring, he’s moved into coaching, but his past endorsements and salary earnings still contribute to his wealth.
- Net Worth: $170 million
- Salary: N/A (Currently coaching)
- Team: Formerly with Manchester United, D.C. United
7. Kylian Mbappé
About: Considered the future of football, Kylian Mbappé has already amassed immense wealth despite his young age. With a massive salary from PSG and endorsement deals with Nike, Hublot, and others, he’s set to climb even higher in the rankings in the coming years.
- Net Worth: $180 million
- Salary: $110 million
- Team: Paris Saint-Germain (expected Real Madrid move)
6. Zlatan Ibrahimović
About: Charismatic and confident, Zlatan has played for top clubs across Europe, from AC Milan to Manchester United. His earnings come from club salaries, endorsements, and personal ventures like his clothing line and investments. Even in retirement, Zlatan remains a lucrative brand.
- Net Worth: $200 million
- Salary: N/A (Retired in 2023)
- Team: Formerly with AC Milan, PSG, LA Galaxy
5. Neymar Jr.
About: Brazilian star Neymar has consistently been one of the top-paid footballers in the world. Known for his flashy lifestyle and incredible footwork, Neymar also cashes in through endorsements, including deals with Puma, Red Bull, and other global brands. His move to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia came with a jaw-dropping salary.
- Net Worth: $250 million
- Salary: $100 million (including bonuses and endorsements)
- Team: Al Hilal (Saudi Pro League)
4. David Beckham
About: Though he’s now retired, David Beckham remains a football legend—and a marketing genius. Known for his style and flair, Beckham has endorsed everything from Armani to Adidas. His ownership stake in Inter Miami and other ventures contributes significantly to his immense wealth.
- Net Worth: $450 million
- Salary: N/A (Retired)
- Team: Formerly with LA Galaxy, Manchester United, Real Madrid
3. Lionel Messi
About: A magician with the ball, Lionel Messi has amassed his fortune through a mix of club salaries, sponsorships, and commercial deals. A seven-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi’s deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and other giants, along with his move to the U.S. MLS, keep his net worth climbing steadily.
Net Worth: $550 million
Salary: $65 million (plus endorsements)
Team: Inter Miami (Major League Soccer)
2. Cristiano Ronaldo
About: Often considered one of the greatest footballers of all time, Cristiano Ronaldo has turned his athletic success into a massive business empire. From fashion to fitness, his brand “CR7” brings in millions. Add to that his massive social media following and lifetime Nike deal, and you get a financial juggernaut.
- Net Worth: $600 million
- Salary: $200 million (including Saudi club deal)
- Team: Al-Nassr (Saudi Pro League)
1. Faiq Bolkiah
About: Born into Brunei royalty, Faiq Bolkiah is not just known for his footballing skills but for his royal lineage. Nephew to the Sultan of Brunei, his wealth isn’t just from his football contracts but largely from his inheritance. While he hasn’t made headlines for on-field performances, his status as a footballer, combined with vast family wealth, makes him stand out.
- Net Worth: $20 billion
- Salary: Reportedly modest in football terms
- Team: Ratchaburi FC (Thailand)
Who is the Richest Footballer in the World?
While many people may think of Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi due to their enormous salaries, brand endorsements and the intense level of fame that they enjoy, the richest footballer in the world is technically Faiq Bolkiah. Given his royal Bruneian lineage, Bolkiah’s net worth far exceeds that of every other footballer. Even though his image as a player is pretty low and he is relatively unknown in the world of footballers, Bolkiah’s estimated value leaves every other player’s wealth in the dust.
It is an interesting reality that the richest footballer in the world may not be the most famous player or even the most decorated when it comes to trophies, but certainly is the richest simply by inheriting it. It re-establishes what we think about sports success and how differently we can acquire wealth.
That being said, if we are to consider wealth acquired solely from performance, brand, and global following through the sport of football, players like Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar take the cake and are the absolute best in the world at gaining wealth. They enjoy what they do to spread a wealth of talent, charisma, and consistency to build their empires.
Conclusion
The world of football is not just about who scores the most goals or lifts the most trophies. It’s also about legacy, influence, and sometimes, lineage. The question of who is the richest footballer in the world opens up a broader discussion on what contributes to a footballer’s fortune, be it personal skill, smart financial moves, or royal birthright.
From Faiq Bolkiah’s astonishing net worth to Cristiano Ronaldo’s empire and Messi’s continuing reign, football’s elite have shown that the pitch is just one part of their journey. Whether you’re a fan of raw talent, business acumen, or fairy-tale fortunes, there’s no denying that the financial game in football is as competitive as the one played on the field.
