Soccer is not just the most popular sport globally; it is also one of the most lucrative. With massive salaries, endorsement deals, and business ventures, some players have accumulated immense wealth. In this article, we explore the top 10 richest soccer players in the world in 2024, their earnings, and how they built their fortunes.
Who Is the World’s Richest Soccer Player?
Who is the richest footballer in the world? The title of the richest soccer player in the whole world often changes due to fluctuating contracts, investments, and endorsements. While players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have long dominated the list, younger talents and royalty-backed athletes have entered the scene.
Top 10 Richest Soccer Players in the World 2024
Here’s the list of the richest soccer players in the world based on estimated net worth:
1. Faiq Bolkiah – Net Worth: $20 Billion
Faiq Bolkiah, the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, is the youngest richest footballer in the world. Unlike most players on this list, he didn’t make his fortune through soccer. Instead, his staggering $20 billion net worth comes from his royal heritage. He pursued a professional football career out of passion, playing in Europe and Asia, but money was never an issue for him. Today, he plays for Chonburi FC in Thailand while enjoying a lavish lifestyle.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo – Net Worth: $600 Million
Ronaldo is not just one of the best footballers of all time—he’s also a business empire in himself. After his move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, his salary skyrocketed, earning him over $200 million per year. But his wealth isn’t just from football. His CR7 brand spans clothing, fragrances, hotels, and gyms. Add to that lifelong sponsorship deals with Nike, Binance, and Herbalife, and it’s clear why he remains one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world.
3. Lionel Messi – Net Worth: $620 Million
Messi’s move to Inter Miami in the U.S. came with a major payday. Not only does he earn a $50 million annual salary, but he also secured unique deals with Apple, Adidas, and Pepsi, profiting from MLS revenue. Messi has also invested in luxury properties and businesses, ensuring he remains one of the top 10 richest footballers in the world 2024.
4. David Beckham – Net Worth: $450 Million
Even though Beckham retired years ago, he’s still cashing in big time. He co-owns Inter Miami, the club that signed Messi, and has lucrative sponsorship deals that never faded. His investments in businesses, real estate, and brand partnerships keep his fortune growing, making him one of the top 10 richest players in the world.
5. Neymar Jr. – Net Worth: $250 Million
Neymar’s flashy lifestyle is backed by an incredible fortune. His move to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia came with an $100 million annual salary. But that’s not all—he has endorsement deals with Puma, Qatar Airways, and Red Bull. He has also dabbled in esports, investing in gaming companies to diversify his wealth.
6. Kylian Mbappé – Net Worth: $180 Million
Mbappé is the highest-paid soccer player in the world when it comes to club salary. At PSG, he earns over $100 million per year, and his sponsorship deals with Nike and Hublot add millions more. Smart investments and philanthropic work have also played a role in building his wealth.
7. Zlatan Ibrahimović – Net Worth: $190 Million
Zlatan is more than just a footballer; he’s a brand. He made his fortune playing for top clubs like AC Milan, PSG, and Manchester United. After retiring, he invested in businesses, co-owns a stake in Hammarby IF (a Swedish club), and launched his own sportswear and drink brands.
8. Wayne Rooney – Net Worth: $170 Million
The Manchester United legend built his fortune through top-tier salaries, endorsements with Nike and Coca-Cola, and his managerial career. Rooney also made smart moves in real estate, buying and selling luxury properties.
9. Gareth Bale – Net Worth: $145 Million
Bale became famous for his record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid, which helped him amass a fortune. Post-retirement, he focuses on golf-related investments, sports ventures, and property development, keeping him among the top 50 richest soccer players in the world.
10. Mohamed Salah – Net Worth: $120 Million
Salah’s rise to football royalty came through his performance at Liverpool, earning a massive salary and securing deals with Adidas, Vodafone, and Pepsi. He is also heavily involved in philanthropy, investing in community projects in Egypt while remaining one of the top 10 richest footballers in the world.
Wrap-Up
The top 10 most richest soccer players in the world have built their fortunes through a combination of talent, marketability, and smart financial moves. Whether it’s Faiq Bolkiah’s net worth or Cristiano Ronaldo’s global influence, these players have set financial benchmarks in football.
For more insights on the top ten richest soccer players in the world 2023, check out this detailed ranking.
This article was updated 2 weeks ago
