Football or soccer as it’s known in some parts of the world is not just a game. It’s a global phenomenon that attracts billions of fans, generates millions of jobs, and produces some of the world’s most marketable athletes.
While many footballers are known for their jaw-dropping skills on the pitch, the top players also command mind-boggling riches.
Many have made savvy investments, signed endorsement deals with big brands, and launched their business ventures.
Here are the ten richest footballers in 2024.
1. Faiq Bolkiah | billion
Topping the list and by a landslide is Faiq, a name that may be unfamiliar to many football fans. He is the richest footballer in the world and the bulk of his fortune doesn’t come from football.
He’s a member of the Brunei royal family, the son of Prince Jefri Bolkiah, and a nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah.
While Faiq’s footballing career hasn’t been particularly noteworthy in terms of major accomplishments, he’s had stints with several clubs, including Leicester City and Portugal’s Marítimo.
Currently playing for Chonburi FC in Thailand, where he’s pursuing his passion for football more as a hobby than a necessity.
Born into unimaginable wealth- Brunei’s royal family controls vast oil reserves-Faiq’s football journey is more about personal passion than financial gain.
2. Lionel Messi | 0 million
When you think of the greatest footballers of all time, Messi is a name that invariably comes to mind. Messi’s net worth stands at a staggering $600 million in 2024, and it’s no surprise given his legendary status.
Messi spent the prime of his career at Barcelona, where he became their all-time leading scorer, won countless trophies, and earned 8 Ballon d’Or awards.
His high-profile transfer to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2021 added another chapter to his career. Then, in 2023, Messi made waves by joining Inter Miami in Major League Soccer (MLS), inking a deal that gave him part ownership of the club and a share of broadcasting revenue from Apple TV.
This move has redefined what footballers can negotiate in contracts and has further expanded his already huge fortune.
Messi’s wealth doesn’t just come from his playing contracts.
He’s built a powerful brand, with endorsements from Adidas, Pepsi, and numerous other brands. His lifetime deal with Adidas is particularly lucrative, ensuring that Messi’s wealth will continue to grow even after his playing days are over.
Messi also launched his clothing line and holds various investments that contribute to his financial empire.
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3. Cristiano Ronaldo | 0 million
CR7 is Messi’s greatest rival both on the pitch and in terms of wealth. With an estimated net worth of $500 million in 2024, Ronaldo is one of the most marketable athletes in the world, with a career that spans over two decades at some of the most prestigious clubs.
Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr in 2023 made headlines, with reports of him earning nearly $200 million annually between his salary and ambassadorial work for the Kingdom.
This followed a rich career at Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, where he won several trophies, including five Ballon d’Or awards.
Much like Messi, Ronaldo’s wealth is heavily bolstered by his endorsements. His long-term partnership with Nike is reportedly worth $1 billion, and he’s had deals with companies like Herbalife, Clear, and others.
Ronaldo is more than just a footballer and an endorsement machine – he’s a businessman. He owns the CR7 brand, which includes a clothing line, and fragrances, and one of those footballers who owns a restaurant.
4. David Beckham | 0 million
Beckham may have retired from football in 2013, but his net worth proves that his earning potential has only grown since hanging up his boots. He was one of the most famous footballers in the world during his playing days, known for his passing, crossing, and free-kick ability.
His ventures off the pitch have helped him build a financial empire.
Beckham was one of the first world football stars to truly leverage his brand. He secured lucrative deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and Gillette, to name just a few.
His sense of style and marketability helped him transition smoothly from a sports icon to a fashion and business mogul.
One of his smartest business moves was his decision to invest in Major League Soccer. In 2018, Beckham launched Inter Miami, an MLS expansion team that quickly became one of the league’s most valuable franchises.
He also owns stakes in other ventures, including a partnership with British fashion brand Kent & Curwen. Beckham’s ability to stay relevant and maximize his post-playing career earnings is a testament to his sharp business mind.
5. Dave Whelan | 0 million
Whelan might not be a household name in today’s football world, but he’s had a nice career as a player, businessman, and club owner.
Whelan’s fortune stems more from his entrepreneurial ventures than from his time as a professional footballer.
His playing career was cut short by injury in the 1960s, but his business acumen led him to found the sports retailer JJB Sports, which became one of the largest chains in the UK.
His business success allowed him to buy Wigan Athletic, a club he owned for over two decades. Under his leadership, Wigan rose from the lower tiers of English football to the Premier League and even won the FA Cup in 2013.
Whelan’s wealth might not come from modern-day football salaries, but his contributions to the sport, both as a player and a businessman, have earned him a well-deserved spot on this list.
6. Neymar Jr. | 0 million
Neymar Jr. is the face of modern Brazilian football, known for his flair, creativity, and incredible skill. He has established himself as one of the richest and most marketable players in the game.
Neymar’s record-breaking €222 million transfer from Barcelona to PSG in 2017 remains the most expensive in football history, and his contract with the French giants ensures that he earns a sizable salary.
In 2023, Neymar joined the Saudi Pro League, signing with Al-Hilal, further boosting his income with a massive contract. He remains one of the highest-paid athletes globally.
Off the pitch, Neymar has secured endorsement deals with brands like Puma, Red Bull, and Beats by Dre. His popularity extends far beyond football, with millions of social media followers and a presence that makes him one of the most influential athletes in the world.
Neymar’s combination of talent, charisma, and marketability has ensured that his wealth will only continue to grow.
SEE ALSO | 10 Most Aggressive Players in Football
7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic | 0 million
Ibrahimovic is a footballer like no other. Known for his larger-than-life personality, stunning goals, and incredible longevity. Even after retiring from professional football in 2023, his financial empire continues to thrive.
Zlatan’s career spanned over two decades, with successful stints at some of Europe’s top clubs, including Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, AC Milan, and Juventus.
His unique blend of skill, physicality, and flair made him one of the most dominant forwards in the world for years.
Off the pitch, Zlatan has been equally impressive. He’s signed endorsement deals with companies like Nike, Volvo, and Nivea, and his autobiography, I Am Zlatan, became a bestseller.
His presence in the media and entertainment world, combined with his footballing success, has made Zlatan one of the richest players in recent history.
8. Kylian Mbappe | 0 million
Mbappe is the youngest player on this list but already one of the richest. At just 25 years old in 2024, Mbappe has achieved more in his career than most players dream of, including winning a World Cup and multiple league titles with Paris Saint-Germain.
Mbappe’s immense riches come from his record-breaking contract with PSG, which made him one of the highest-paid players in the world.
His salary, along with bonuses and image rights, ensures that his wealth will continue to grow in the coming years. Mbappe’s marketability is also skyrocketing, with endorsement deals from brands like Nike and EA Sports.
9. Wayne Rooney | 0 million
Rooney is a legend of English football, and his net worth solidifies his status as one of the richest footballers of all time. Rooney’s career, majorly at Manchester United, saw him become the club’s all-time leading scorer and one of the Premier League’s greatest players.
After leaving Manchester United, Rooney spent time in Major League Soccer with D.C. United before transitioning into management.
Rooney’s wealth also comes from his endorsement deals, which included partnerships with Nike and Coca-Cola during his playing days.
SEE ALSO | 10 Longest Football Bans in Premier League History
10. Ronaldo De Lima | 0 million
Commonly known as “R9,” is one of the most prominent footballers in history. Ronaldo has parlayed his legendary career into a successful post-retirement business life.
During his playing days, Ronaldo was a two-time World Cup winner with Brazil and played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, including Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.
His endorsement deals with Nike and other global brands helped him accumulate significant wealth during his career.
Since retiring, Ronaldo has continued to grow his fortune through smart investments, including his purchase of a controlling stake in Spanish club Real Valladolid.
His business ventures, combined with his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time, have ensured that Ronaldo remains a prominent figure in both football and finance.
