Football is the most-followed sport globally, and its popularity continues to rise. Due to its growing global appeal, it has become a billion-dollar industry. As a result, top footballers earn huge salaries, and their income is further boosted by sponsorships, personal brands, social media, merchandise, and endorsements.
Here are the top 10 richest footballers as of 2024, featuring both current and retired players. These players not only have significant earnings from football but also from investments in businesses and the entertainment industry.
| Rank | Name | Net Worth | Nationality | Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Faiq Bolkiah | $20 billion | Brunei | Chonburi F.C. |
| 2 | Lionel Messi | $600 million | Argentina | Inter Miami |
| 3 | Cristiano Ronaldo | $500 million | Portugal | Al Nassr |
| 4 | David Beckham | $450 million | England | Retired |
| 5 | Dave Whelan | $210 million | England | Retired |
| 6 | Neymar Jr. | $200 million | Brazil | Al Hilal |
| 7 | Zlatan Ibrahimovic | $190 million | Sweden | Retired |
| 8 | Kylian Mbappe | $180 million | France | Real Madrid |
| 9 | Wayne Rooney | $170 million | England | Retired |
| 10 | Ronaldo Nazario | $160 million | Brazil | Retired |
Top 10 Richest Footballers as of 2024
10. Ronaldo Nazario ($160 million)
Ronaldo Nazario, the legendary Brazilian striker, kicks off this list. Known as one of the greatest forwards in history, Ronaldo won the FIFA World Cup twice, in 1994 and 2002, and also won the Ballon d’Or in 1997 and 2002. He is among the rare few who played for both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona as well as Inter Milan and AC Milan. Since 2000, he has been a UN goodwill ambassador and owns the Spanish La Liga club, Real Valladolid.
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9. Wayne Rooney ($170 million)
Wayne Rooney is one of England’s greatest footballers. He made his mark in the Premier League with Everton before moving to Manchester United, where he won numerous trophies and became the club’s all-time top scorer. Rooney also became the first player in Premier League history to achieve both 200 goals and 100 assists. After retiring, he transitioned to management, currently coaching Plymouth Argyle FC in the EFL Championship.
8. Kylian Mbappe ($180 million)
Kylian Mbappe is one of the youngest active players on this list. He gained worldwide recognition after leading France to victory in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In 2024, Mbappe joined Real Madrid, achieving his childhood dream of following in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo. The French star also received a substantial signing bonus as part of his move. Additionally, Mbappe and his family are exploring buying the French second-division club, Stade Malherbe Caen.
7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic ($190 million)
Known as one of the best strikers of all time, Zlatan Ibrahimovic played for iconic clubs like Inter Milan, AC Milan, Barcelona, Manchester United, and PSG. He retired in July 2023 but remains Sweden’s all-time leading scorer with 62 goals. He is also part-owner of the Swedish club Hammarby IF.
6. Neymar Jr ($200 million)
Neymar is a Brazilian football icon known for his skills and flair. After moving from Barcelona to PSG in 2017, he became the most expensive player ever. Now playing for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, Neymar also holds the record as Brazil’s all-time top scorer. Despite injury setbacks, his endorsement deals, including a £23 million-per-year contract with Nike, continue to boost his earnings.
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5. Dave Whelan ($210 million)
Dave Whelan, a former English footballer, later turned his focus to business after retiring from football in 1966. He notably owned Wigan Athletic and served as its chairman for 20 years, guiding the club to promotion to the Premier League and leading them to victory in the 2013 FA Cup final.
4. David Beckham ($450 million)
David Beckham is a household name in football, both for his skills and his fame. During his career, he played for major clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, PSG, and LA Galaxy, winning 19 major trophies. Even after retiring, Beckham remains in the spotlight and now owns the MLS club Inter Miami.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo ($500 million)
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most iconic figures in football, holding records like the most goals in international men’s football and the UEFA Champions League. He has a lifetime contract with Nike, and his deal with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia is worth around €200 million annually. Ronaldo’s CR7 brand spans clothing, eyewear, footwear, fragrances, and more. He also owns a chain of hotels and restaurants.
2. Lionel Messi ($600 million)
Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is widely regarded as one of the best footballers of all time. He is currently playing for Inter Miami in the MLS and holds 45 trophies, making him the most decorated footballer in history. Messi has a lifetime deal with Adidas, owns the ‘Messi Store,’ and is also involved in the ‘MIM Hotels’ business.
1. Faiq Bolkiah ($20 billion)
Faiq Bolkiah, a member of the Brunei royal family, tops the list of the richest footballers in 2024. He captains the Brunei national team and plays for Chonburi F.C. in Thai League 1. His estimated net worth of $20 billion comes largely from his family, as his father, Jefri Bolkiah, is a prince of Brunei.
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