Football is one of the most popular and profitable sports in the world, with its top players earning big sums. Collecting millions each year through salaries, bonuses, endorsements, and business ventures, it’s no surprise that footballers are among the richest athletes.
In this article, we explore the top 10 richest footballers. These players have made huge sums not only from their careers on the field but also from smart investments off the field. From Cristiano Ronaldo to Lionel Messi to Neymar Jr., these athletes have achieved incredible financial success throughout their careers.
| Rank | Footballer |
Net Worth (USD)
|
| 1 | Faiq Bolkiah |
$20 billion
|
| 2 | Lionel Messi |
$650 million
|
| 3 | Cristiano Ronaldo |
$600 million
|
| 4 | David Beckham |
$450 million
|
| 5 | Dave Whelan |
$220 million
|
| 6 | Neymar Jr. |
$200 million
|
| 7 | Zlatan Ibrahimovic |
$190 million
|
| 8 | Wayne Rooney |
$170 million
|
| 9 | Gareth Bale |
$145 million
|
| 10 | Andrés Iniesta |
$120 million
|
Contents
Top 10 Richest Footballers In The World Today
1. Faiq Bolkiah
Net Worth: $20 billion
Faiq Bolkiah is often called the richest footballer in the world. His wealth doesn’t mainly come from scoring goals but from his royal lineage in Brunei. His father, Prince Jefri Bolkiah, is part of the ultra-rich Bolkiah family, which has amassed billions, mainly from the country’s oil riches. Being a member of Brunei’s royal family puts Faiq in line to inherit part of the sultan’s vast fortune, making him incredibly wealthy despite his not-so-flashy football career.
2. Lionel Messi
Net Worth: $650 million
Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has accumulated substantial wealth throughout his career. His contracts with Barcelona, along with endorsements from Nike and a lifetime deal with Adidas, have significantly boosted his earnings. Messi is one of the world’s highest-paid athletes, making around $80 million annually.
In addition to his football earnings, Messi owns properties in Miami, Barcelona, Ibiza, and his hometown of Rosario, Argentina. His impressive car collection includes a Ferrari 335 S Spider Scaglietti, Pagani Zonda Tricolore, Audi RS6, Audi A7, Audi Q7, Mercedes SLS AMG, Maserati Gran Turismo MC Stradale, Ferrari F430 Spyder, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Vogue, and Cadillac Escalade. He also owns a luxury yacht, solidifying his position as the second richest footballer in the world.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo
Net Worth: $600 million
Cristiano Ronaldo is not only one of the richest professional footballers in the world but also one of the highest-paid athletes. The Portuguese superstar has played for some of the biggest clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, earning hundreds of millions throughout his illustrious career. In addition to his football earnings, Ronaldo has numerous endorsement deals with major brands like Nike, Livescore, Tag Heuer, Herbalife, Armani, Sacoor Brothers suits, and Monster headphones.
Ronaldo owns several luxurious properties in Lisbon, Madeira, Turin, Madrid, and Manchester. He also boasts an 88-foot-long luxury yacht valued at £5.5 million and a private jet. His impressive car collection includes a Rolls-Royce Cullinan, Ferrari F12 TDF, Lamborghini Aventador, Bugatti Centodieci, Maserati GranCabrio, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Ferrari F430, Mercedes-Benz Brabus G65, Bugatti Chiron, Audi RS7, Mercedes-Benz GLE63s AMG, Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead, Ferrari 599 GTO, Bentley Continental, Mercedes-Benz S65, Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, and Ferrari Monza SP1.
4. David Beckham
Net Worth: $450 million
David Beckham, a legendary figure in British football, has collected a considerable fortune through his successful career and smart business ventures. Playing for top clubs like Manchester United and Real Madrid, Beckham earned significant salaries. However, his income wasn’t limited to football. He has also been a prominent figure in the endorsement world, partnering with top brands like Adidas, Konami, Tudor, Kent & Curwen, Diageo, and Jaguar.
Beckham’s yearly earnings are estimated to be around $50 million, with more than $280 million coming from endorsements and $250 million from football salaries over his career, culminating in a $450 million net worth. Beyond his earnings, Beckham’s investments and business ventures, including co-owning the Inter Miami CF soccer team, further boost his financial portfolio.
Beckham owns multiple high-end properties in London, Miami, and Dubai, reflecting his international lifestyle. His car collection is equally impressive, featuring a McLaren MP4-12C Spider, Rolls-Royce Phantom, Aston Martin V8 Vantage X-Pack Volante, Cadillac Escalade ESV, Ferrari 360 Spider, Ferrari 612 Scaglietti, Lamborghini Gallardo, 1998 Ferrari 550 Maranello, and Bentley Bentayga. Additionally, he owns a luxury yacht, adding to his collection of lavish assets.
5. Dave Whelan
Net Worth: $220 million
Dave Whelan is one of the richest professional football players globally, known for his impressive investments and business experience. He earned significant wealth during his playing days with Blackburn Rovers and Crewe Alexandra. However, Whelan’s financial success extends far beyond his football career. As the owner of the English Premier League side Wigan Athletic, he has made wise business moves that have greatly contributed to his fortune.
Whelan’s business ventures include his successful retail enterprise, DW Sports Fitness, which has expanded into a chain of fitness centers and sports shops. His annual earnings are estimated to be around $30 million, showcasing his continued success off the field. His combination of sports and business expertise has solidified his position as one of the wealthiest individuals in football.
6. Neymar Jr.
Net Worth: $200 million
Neymar’s talent on the football field is undeniable, and his earnings mirror his skills. He has earned millions playing for Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as representing the Brazilian national team. Besides his salary, Neymar also pulls in a substantial income from endorsements with companies such as Epic Games, Puma, Flutter Entertainment, Qatar Airways, Triller, and Red Bull.
Neymar’s annual earnings are estimated to be around $75 million. And when it comes to his car collection, it’s nothing short of luxurious. He owns a Lamborghini Veneno, Ferrari 458 Italia, Audi R8 Spyder V10 Plus, Lykan Hypersport, Maserati MC12, Porsche Panamera Turbo, Mercedes AMG GT S, Range Rover SVA, and a Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG.
7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Net Worth: $190 million
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a football icon who has built an impressive fortune throughout his career. Playing for Barcelona, Juventus, and Paris Saint-Germain, he has earned millions both on and off the pitch. Besides his salary as a player, Zlatan has secured endorsements with companies like Volvo, further boosting his income.
Not content with just being a football star, Zlatan is also a savvy entrepreneur. In 2016, he founded his own sportswear company, A-Z Sportswear. Additionally, he co-founded Ibrahimovic Parfums with Olivier Pescheux, tapping into the world of fragrance.
Zlatan’s luxurious lifestyle is evident in his collection of cars, which includes a Porsche 918 Spyder, Maserati Gran Turismo MC, Ferrari LaFerrari, Ferrari Monza SP2, Ferrari Enzo, and Volvo XC70. And when he’s not cruising in one of his high-end vehicles, Zlatan travels in style with his own private jet.
8. Wayne Rooney
Net Worth: $170 million
Wayne Rooney is a professional football legend from England who has earned millions throughout his bright career path. Playing for Manchester United, Everton, and D.C. United, he has left a mark on the sport. Rooney’s earnings aren’t limited to his salary as a player; he also brings in money through endorsements with big brands: Asda, Nike, Ford, Coca-Cola, and Nokia.
Beyond football and endorsements, Rooney has invested in real estate. He owns properties in various locations, including a home in Cheshire, England, an apartment in Port Charlotte, Florida, and a villa in Barbados.
When it comes to his lifestyle, Rooney’s car collection is nothing short of impressive. Among his prized possessions are a Bentley Continental GT, Range Rover Evoque (Overfinch), BMW i8, Audi Q7, Lamborghini Gallardo, Aston Martin Vanquish S, Audi RS6 Avant, Mercedes CLS Coupe, Range Rover Vogue (Overfinch), and BMW X5.
9. Gareth Bale
Net Worth: USD 145 million
Gareth Bale is a football sensation with a great career, having played for Tottenham Hotspur, Real Madrid, and Los Angeles FC. His wealth stems from both his salary as a player and generous endorsements with companies such as Adidas, Konami, Foot Locker, and Nissan Motor. Not stopping at football, Bale is also the founder of Primesure Limited, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.
When it comes to his lifestyle, Bale’s car collection is impressive. Among his prized vehicles are an Audi R8 Spyder, Audi Q7, Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, Mercedes Class C63 AMG Coupe, and Range Rover. Additionally, he owns luxurious properties in Cardiff, United Kingdom, and the La Finca area of Madrid, Spain, further solidifying his status as one of the wealthiest footballers in the world.
10. Andrés Iniesta
Net Worth: $120 million
Andrés Iniesta, a professional football player from Spain, collected his wealth primarily during his contract with Barcelona, one of the world’s premier clubs, before moving to Vissel Kobe in Japan. Apart from his football career, Iniesta is also an entrepreneur, owning a winery business. He further boosts his income through endorsements with major brands like Nike and EA Sports. Currently, Iniesta is estimated to earn around $30 million annually at his current club.
In addition to his successful ventures and football earnings, Iniesta also has an impressive car collection, including a Nissan, Bugatti Veyron, Audi, and Range Rover, among others. His diverse investments and assets contribute to his status as one of the wealthiest and most influential footballers globally.
Key Takeaways
This was our comprehensive list of the top 10 richest footballers in the world. Football is not just a game—it’s also one of the most lucrative sports globally.
With players earning millions annually from their salaries, bonuses, endorsements, and various business ventures, it’s no wonder they stand among the wealthiest athletes. Stay tuned with Parimatch for more insider insights and betting tips!
FAQ
❓ Who is the Top 10 richest footballer?
They are Faiq Bolkiah, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, Dave Whelan, Neymar Jr., Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wayne Rooney, Gareth Bale, and Andrés Iniesta.
❓ Who is the No 1 richest player in the world?
Cristiano Ronaldo takes the crown, having signed a lucrative two-and-a-half-year contract with Saudi club Al-Nassr, worth an astonishing €200 million (£177 million) per year.
❓ Who is the richest footballer in Africa in 2024?
In 2024, the highest-paid African footballer is Riyad Mahrez. The Algerian winger, who previously played for Manchester City, now plies his trade in the Saudi Pro League with Al Ahli. His annual earnings surpass $58 million, making him the top earner among African footballers.
❓ Who is Ghana’s highest-paid player?
In the Ghanaian national team, Inaki Williams currently holds the title of the highest-paid player. Williams, who recently switched his international allegiance from Ghana to Spain, earns a weekly wage of £188,607. Notably, Arsenal’s Thomas Partey, who is absent from the squad, pockets a weekly sum of £200,0003. Additionally, in the Ghana Premier League, Victorien Adebayor and Abednego Tetteh have been among the highest-paid players.
