Top 10 richest footballers as of 2024

Published at :March 26, 2024 at 12:17 AM

Modified at :April 10, 2024 at 4:28 PM

This list contains some of the greatest players to ever grace the pitch

Football isn’t just a game—it’s a global sensation that reels in billions of dollars, fueled by passionate fans, lucrative sponsorships, and sky-high player contracts. At the forefront of this financial frenzy is none other than Faiq Bolkiah, reigning as the wealthiest footballer on the planet. But he’s not the only one basking in riches.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the dazzling world of football’s top earners. From jaw-dropping salaries to lucrative endorsements, these players have hit the jackpot both on and off the pitch. So, sit back, relax, and join us as we unveil the money-making maestros who rule the beautiful game.

10. Ronaldo Luis Nazario- $160 Million

Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima, famously known as Ronaldo, hails from Brazil and boasts an impressive football career. Beyond his exploits on the field, Ronaldo has also found success as a savvy businessman. Renowned as one of the sport’s greatest icons, Ronaldo has left an indelible mark on football history, setting numerous records and amassing considerable wealth along the way.

Notably, at the tender age of 21, Ronaldo shattered records as the most expensive player in football history and became the youngest recipient of the esteemed Ballon d’Or award—a remarkable feat that remains unmatched.

In addition to his sporting achievements, Ronaldo has dedicated himself to making a positive impact on humanitarian causes. Since 2000, he has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme, leveraging his fame and influence to champion various charitable endeavours.

9. Wayne Rooney – $170 Million

Wayne Rooney, the retired English football star known for his skills as a striker, is considered one of the best players in Premier League and English football history. During his time with Manchester United, he won 13 trophies, including five Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League title.

Rooney first gained fame as the youngest goal scorer in Premier League history while playing for Manchester United. After retiring from football in 2021, Rooney left behind a legacy of success and brilliance that continues to inspire fans around the globe.

8. Kylian Mbappe – $180 Million

Kylian Mbappé, the French football sensation, is known for his speed and scoring ability as a forward for Paris Saint-Germain and the French national team. With numerous titles including four Ligue 1 titles and Golden Boot awards, Mbappé has already left a mark on the football world. He played a crucial role in France’s 2018 FIFA World Cup victory and has emerged as one of the brightest talents in the sport. His friendships and rivalries, particularly with Lionel Messi, have captivated fans globally.

7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic – $190 million

Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the legendary Swedish striker, enjoyed a remarkable career with AC Milan and the Swedish national team. Known for his incredible skills and acrobatic goals, he has played for several top clubs including Barcelona, Juventus, Inter Milan, and Manchester United.

Ibrahimovic’s trophy haul includes 11 league titles and five UEFA Champions League titles. He also played a crucial role in Sweden’s FIFA World Cup qualifications. With over 560 career goals, he holds the record for Sweden’s all-time leading scorer. Additionally, Ibrahimovic ranks as the seventh richest footballer globally.

6. Neymar Jr. – $200 million

Brazilian football player Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, better known by his amiable nickname Neymar Jr. or just Neymar, is a forward for Al Hilal and a member of the Brazil national team. Neymar, who is regarded as the best Brazilian football player of all time, has had a profound impact on the game.

Throughout his remarkable career, he has won three Copa del Rey championships, two La Liga crowns, and a 2015 UEFA Champions League championship with Barcelona. Beyond his achievements with clubs, Neymar was essential to Brazil’s victories, helping the country win the Copa América in 2019 and win the gold medal at the Olympics in 2016.

5. Dave Whelan – $210 million

Dave Whelan, born in 1936, began his career as a winger for Blackburn Rovers and Crewe Alexandra. Notably, he secured the Football League Third Division North title with Blackburn Rovers in 1959–60. Following his retirement from football in 1966, Whelan transitioned into a successful businessman. He founded the Wigan Athletic football club, serving as its owner and chairman for two decades.

Eventually, he passed the ownership to his grandson before it moved to International Entertainment Corporation. Whelan’s net worth is currently estimated at $210 million.

4. David Beckham – $450 million

David Beckham, renowned as one of the finest players of his time, showcased his skills as an attacking midfielder throughout his illustrious career. His global fame transcended the sport, garnering immense popularity worldwide. Beckham’s journey in football took him through prestigious clubs such as Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.

Throughout his career, Beckham amassed an impressive collection of trophies, totaling 19 major titles. Among his accolades are six Premier League titles, a La Liga title, and an MLS Cup. Despite bidding farewell to professional football in 2013, Beckham’s influence and legacy continue to resonate across various sports arenas.

Currently, Beckham holds the esteemed position as the fourth-richest footballer globally, boasting a net worth of $450 million. His enduring impact on the sport and his ventures beyond the pitch solidify his status as an icon in the realm of football.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo – $500M

Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portuguese footballer, leads both the Portugal national team and Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr as a forward. With a net worth of $500 million, he ranks as the third wealthiest footballer globally.

Ronaldo boasts five Ballon d’Or awards, the most by any European player, and holds the record for the highest number of international football goals.

Renowned as one of the greatest players in football history, Ronaldo’s rivalry with Lionel Messi fuels constant comparisons of their records and skills on the field.

2. Lionel Messi- $600M

Lionel Messi, widely acclaimed as one of the greatest footballers of all time, hails from Argentina and currently serves as a forward for Inter Miami. With a staggering net worth of $600 million, he ranks as the second wealthiest footballer globally. Messi’s legendary performances on the field have solidified his status as a football icon, earning him admiration worldwide.

As captain of the Argentina national team, he continues to showcase his exceptional talent. Notably, Messi has clinched eight Ballon d’Or awards, a remarkable feat that sets him apart in football history. His achievements have led to books and films being dedicated to him, cementing his legacy as a 21st-century sports icon.

1. Faiq Bolkiah- $20 billion

With a whooping $20 billion in net worth, Bruneian-born football star Faiq Bolkiah is currently the richest footballer in the world. His royal ancestry—his uncle is the Sultan of Brunei, and he is the Prince of the Kingdom—is partly responsible for his enormous wealth. Bolkiah, who comes from a wealthy family, plays professional football as a winger for Thailand’s Chonburi F.C. and the Brunei national team.

Bolkiah earns only $1,000 a week from football, which is a small sum considering his enormous wealth. He plays midfield for the Portuguese team Maritimo at the moment.

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