Top 14 richest footballers in the world (as of June 2025)
Here’s an elaborated breakdown of the top 14 richest footballers in the world (as of June 2025) according to Forbes and other financial sources, highlighting their net worth, business ventures, salaries, and brand impact:
1. Faiq Bolkiah – $20 Billion
Faiq, the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, holds a net worth unmatched in football due to his royal heritage. While his career on the pitch—currently with Ratchaburi FC in Thailand—has not garnered much attention, his wealth stems from the Bruneian royal fortune, which includes oil, investments, and real estate. He pursued football out of passion, having played in youth academies for Chelsea, Leicester City, and Marítimo in Portugal.
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2. Cristiano Ronaldo – $800 Million
Ronaldo remains a financial juggernaut. Now playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, his contract reportedly earns him over $200 million annually. Off the pitch, his CR7 brand (fashion, fragrance, gyms, hotels), lifetime Nike deal, and global endorsements with companies like Clear, Herbalife, and Binance have helped amass his $800M net worth. He also has significant real estate holdings in Portugal, Spain, and the UAE.
3. Lionel Messi – $650 Million
Since joining Inter Miami in the MLS, Messi’s fortune continues to grow. His Adidas lifetime contract, endorsement deals with Pepsi, Budweiser, and Mastercard, and share in Apple TV+ streaming rights have added to his already massive earnings. Messi also co-owns several businesses, including a luxury hotel chain and investment portfolios in Argentina and the U.S.
4. David Beckham – $550 Million
Though retired, Beckham’s financial empire is thriving. Co-owner of Inter Miami CF, he earns from branding partnerships (Adidas, Tudor Watches, Maserati) and licensing deals. His brand value as a global ambassador for football and business has remained strong. He also owns multiple real estate properties across London, Dubai, and Miami, making him the wealthiest English footballer to date.
5. Neymar Jr. – $350 Million
Neymar’s move to Al Hilal brought a massive salary boost, reportedly over $100 million/year. His Puma deal (following his exit from Nike), Red Bull, PokerStars, and other endorsements ensure a steady stream of income. Neymar also invests heavily in esports, NFTs, and Brazilian startups, and owns real estate across Brazil and France.
6. Kylian Mbappé – $300 Million
After joining Real Madrid in 2025, Mbappé’s profile as a global superstar has skyrocketed. He earns around $70–80 million annually in wages and bonuses. With endorsements from Nike, Oakley, Hublot, and EA Sports, along with a keen interest in philanthropy and youth empowerment in France, Mbappé is not just a football star but also a social icon.
7. Zlatan Ibrahimović – $190 Million
Despite retiring in 2023, Zlatan’s wealth remains substantial. He owns part of Swedish football club Hammarby IF and has various ventures in fitness, fashion (A-Z Sportswear), and tech. His brash personality and global branding have helped him remain a sought-after figure in sports media and advertising, especially in Europe.
8. Wayne Rooney – $170 Million
Former Manchester United and England captain, now active in coaching, Rooney has built a strong financial legacy. His sponsorship deals with Nike and Coca-Cola (during his playing days), smart investments, and ongoing punditry/coaching roles ensure his post-retirement income stream remains active. He’s also invested in property across the UK.
9. Karim Benzema – $200 Million
Benzema’s move to Al Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League drastically increased his earnings. Already one of Real Madrid’s highest earners, his Saudi contract includes a base salary, image rights, and bonuses estimated at over $100 million/year. Benzema also earns from Adidas and other personal branding ventures, and he’s expanded into charity and fitness.
10. Robert Lewandowski – $160 Million
The Barcelona striker is one of Europe’s most marketable footballers. His deal with Nike, endorsements with Huawei, and investments in Polish tech and health brands have grown his fortune. He also co-owns a luxury gym chain with his wife, Anna Lewandowska, a nutritionist and entrepreneur.
11. Mohamed Salah – $220 Million
Salah continues to be a global icon for both Egypt and Liverpool. His endorsement deals with Adidas, Pepsi, Oppo, and Vodafone Egypt are among the most lucrative for African athletes. His move to Saudi Arabia is widely speculated to add over $100 million to his income. He also donates generously to educational and healthcare projects in Egypt.
12. Antoine Griezmann – $180 Million
Griezmann, back with Atlético Madrid, has capitalized on endorsement deals with Puma and EA Sports. Beyond football, he’s ventured into esports, production (he owns a documentary company), and horse racing. He remains a key player both on the field and in entrepreneurial spaces in France and Spain.
13. Erling Haaland – $60 Million
At just 24, Haaland has already achieved massive financial success. Playing for Manchester City, he earns an estimated $30 million in wages and bonuses annually. He also has deals with Nike, Samsung, and Hyperice. Known for keeping a low profile, he’s expected to become a billionaire athlete by his early 30s if his career trajectory holds.
14. Vinícius Jr. – $55 Million
The Real Madrid winger is one of the fastest-rising stars financially. With a new contract extension, bonus incentives, and endorsements from Nike and Red Bull, Vinícius is poised to be the face of global football. He’s also invested in tech startups in Brazil and supports charitable causes tied to youth and education.
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