Football’s biggest stars are not just dominating on the pitch; they are also conquering the world of wealth.
These global icons reflect the sport’s remarkable financial evolution from record-breaking wages and multimillion-dollar sponsorships to thriving business empires.
According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index and other verified financial reports, the world’s ten richest footballers now boast a combined net worth of $4.3 billion, led by Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who has made history as football’s first-ever billionaire player.
Below is the list of the ten wealthiest footballers and their estimated net worth:
1. Cristiano Ronaldo – $1.4 Billion
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo tops the list with an estimated net worth of $1.4 billion, becoming the first footballer in history to reach billionaire status.
The Al Nassr forward’s wealth stems from his record-breaking contract in Saudi Arabia and his CR7 brand empire, which includes fashion, hotels, fragrances, and gyms.
Ronaldo’s two-year extension with Al Nassr reportedly earns him over $200 million annually, cementing his place as the richest player in football history.
2. Lionel Messi – $850 Million
Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi ranks second with an estimated fortune of $850 million.
His wealth has been built through lucrative contracts at Barcelona and PSG, along with long-term sponsorships with Adidas, Pepsi, and Apple.
Messi’s MLS deal continues to add to his fortune, with guaranteed annual pay of around $20 million since 2023.
3. David Beckham – $500 Million
Retired England star David Beckham has turned his post-football career into a global business empire worth $500 million.
He continues to earn from endorsements with Adidas, H&M, and Haig Club whiskey, alongside his ownership stake in Inter Miami CF, one of Major League Soccer’s most valuable clubs.
4. Neymar Jr. – $350 Million
Brazilian forward Neymar Jr. ranks fourth with a net worth of $350 million.
His wealth comes from massive contracts with PSG and Al Hilal, plus sponsorships from Puma and Red Bull.
Neymar’s ambassadorial and fashion ventures also contribute millions annually.
5. Kylian Mbappe – $300 Million
French superstar Kylian Mbappe continues to rise financially with an estimated net worth between $250 million and $300 million.
Now at Real Madrid, he earns huge wages from his transfer, along with major endorsement deals with Nike and Hublot.
5. Wayne Rooney – $216 Million
Former England captain Wayne Rooney has built a fortune of $216 million, primarily from his playing days at Manchester United and DC United. Rooney continues to earn through management positions, media work, and ambassadorial roles.
6. Karim Benzema – $200 Million
French striker Karim Benzema, a Ballon d’Or winner and Real Madrid legend, has an estimated net worth of $200 million.
His move to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, combined with numerous endorsement deals, has kept him among football’s financial elite.
7. Zlatan Ibrahimović – $190 Million
Swedish icon Zlatan Ibrahimović boasts an impressive net worth of $190 million.
Over two decades at elite clubs, including Barcelona, PSG, and AC Milan, plus sponsorships from Nike and Volvo, have built his wealth and sustained his global profile.
8. Ronaldo Nazário – $160 Million
Brazilian legend Ronaldo Nazário, now a successful businessman and club owner, is worth an estimated $160 million.
His lifetime deal with Nike and investments in Real Valladolid and Cruzeiro have cemented his post-retirement success.
9. Gareth Bale – $145 Million
Welsh star Gareth Bale completes the list with an estimated net worth of $145 million. His record salary at Real Madrid and endorsement deals with Adidas, EA Sports, and Gatorade earned him a place among Britain’s wealthiest athletes.
Since retiring, Bale has shifted focus to golf and real estate investments.
10. Anthony Nlebem
Head of Sports at BusinessDay Media, a seasoned Digital Content Producer, and FIFA/CAF Accredited Journalist with over a decade of sports reporting.Has a deep understanding of the Nigerian and global sports landscape and skills in delivering comprehensive and insightful sports content.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
