Football, often called “the beautiful game,” is more than just a sport—it’s a global phenomenon that unites billions of fans across continents. From the electric atmosphere of packed stadiums to the artistry of a perfectly timed goal, football captures hearts like no other. Beyond the pitch, the sport has created superstars whose influence extends far beyond their athletic achievements, turning them into global brands and financial titans. Did you know that football is the only sport with its own international holiday? July 10th is celebrated as “International Football Day,” recognizing its profound impact on global culture.
In this article, we dive into the world of the richest footballers in 2025, exploring the sources of their wealth, from jaw-dropping salaries and endorsement deals to savvy investments and royal inheritances. At the top of this elite list is Faiq Bolkiah, whose staggering $20 billion net worth overshadows even the most iconic names in football. Household names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar follow, their fortunes built on a combination of on-field brilliance and off-field business acumen. We’ll also examine lesser-known but incredibly wealthy figures like Dave Whelan, whose business ventures have propelled him into this exclusive club. Through detailed profiles, a comprehensive table, and insights into their financial empires, this article uncovers how these athletes have turned their talent into monumental wealth.
The Richest Footballers in 2025: A Snapshot
Below is a tabular overview of the top 10 richest footballers in the world as of 2025, based on the latest available data:
Rank | Name | Net Worth | Team/Club | Age | Career Start |
1 | Faiq Bolkiah | $20 billion | Chonburi F.C., Thailand | 26 | 2016 |
2 | Cristiano Ronaldo | $800 million | Al Nassr, Saudi Arabia | 39 | 2002 |
3 | Lionel Messi | $650 million | Inter Miami, USA | 37 | 2004 |
4 | David Beckham | $450 million | Retired (ex-Manchester United) | 48 | 1992 |
5 | Neymar Jr. | $250 million | Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia | 32 | 2009 |
6 | Dave Whelan | $230 million | Retired (ex-Blackburn Rovers) | 88 | 1956 |
7 | Wayne Rooney | $216 million | Retired (ex-Manchester United) | 39 | 2002 |
8 | Karim Benzema | $200 million | Al-Ittihad, Saudi Arabia | 37 | 2004 |
9 | Zlatan Ibrahimović | $190 million | Retired (ex-AC Milan) | 43 | 1999 |
10 | Kylian Mbappé | $180 million | Paris Saint-Germain, France | 26 | 2015 |
Sources: The Mirror, BBC, Goal.com, Olympics.com, The FA
1. Faiq Bolkiah: The Billionaire Prince of Football
Net Worth: $20 billion (approximately ₹1,660,000 crores)
Salary: $1,000 per week (around ₹82,000)
Team: Chonburi F.C., Thailand
Age: 26
Career Start: 2016
Faiq Bolkiah stands alone as the richest footballer in the world, with a net worth of $20 billion that dwarfs even the most celebrated names in the sport. Unlike his peers, Bolkiah’s wealth doesn’t come from football earnings but from his royal lineage as the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah, one of the world’s wealthiest monarchs. His family’s fortune, derived from Brunei’s vast oil and gas reserves, places him in a financial stratosphere far beyond the reach of typical athletes.
On the pitch, Bolkiah is a winger for Chonburi F.C. in Thailand’s top league and has represented the Brunei national team since 2014. His football journey began in England, where he trained with youth academies at Southampton, Chelsea, and Leicester City. Despite his modest weekly salary of $1,000, Bolkiah’s passion for the game is evident—he plays for the love of football, not financial necessity. His unique status as a prince and professional athlete has garnered media attention, though he maintains a relatively low profile compared to global superstars. Bolkiah’s story is a testament to how football can bridge vastly different worlds, from royal palaces to the pitch.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Global Icon
Net Worth: $800 million
Salary: $214 million annually
Team: Al Nassr, Saudi Arabia
Age: 39
Career Start: 2002
Cristiano Ronaldo, a name synonymous with football excellence, ranks second with a net worth of $800 million. Known for his relentless work ethic, unparalleled goal-scoring ability, and charismatic presence, Ronaldo has built an empire both on and off the field. His career spans iconic clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus, culminating in his current stint with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, where his annual salary of $214 million makes him one of the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Ronaldo’s wealth extends beyond his salary. His CR7 brand includes clothing, fragrances, hotels, and gyms, while endorsement deals with Nike, Herbalife, and others generate tens of millions annually. As the all-time leading international goal scorer and a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Ronaldo’s marketability is unmatched. His 600 million+ Instagram followers amplify his influence, making him a cultural juggernaut. From lucrative sponsorships to smart investments, Ronaldo’s financial legacy is as impressive as his sporting one.
3. Lionel Messi: The Maestro of the Pitch
Net Worth: $650 million
Salary: $60 million annually
Team: Inter Miami, USA
Age: 37
Career Start: 2004
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever, holds the third spot with a net worth of $650 million. His journey from a prodigious talent at FC Barcelona to a global icon is the stuff of legend. After winning eight Ballon d’Or awards, four UEFA Champions League titles, and becoming Barcelona’s all-time top scorer, Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 before moving to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer in 2023. His $60 million annual salary is complemented by endorsement deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and others.
Messi’s impact transcends football. His move to Inter Miami sparked a surge in MLS popularity, with ticket sales and merchandise skyrocketing. Off the pitch, Messi’s investments include real estate and his own clothing line. His humble persona and extraordinary talent have made him a beloved figure worldwide, ensuring his financial success matches his sporting achievements.
4. David Beckham: The Cultural Icon
Net Worth: $450 million (approximately ₹37,350 crores)
Salary: Estimated $50 million annually during his playing career (around ₹410 crores)
Team: Retired (formerly Manchester United, Real Madrid)
Age: 48
Career Start: 1992
David Beckham, a football legend turned global brand, ranks fourth with a net worth of $450 million. Known for his pinpoint crosses and free-kick mastery, Beckham played for Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, and Paris Saint-Germain, winning titles in four countries. His post-retirement ventures have been equally successful. As co-owner of Inter Miami CF, Beckham has played a pivotal role in bringing stars like Messi to the MLS, boosting the league’s global profile.
Beckham’s wealth stems from endorsement deals with Adidas, Armani, and others, as well as his production company and investments in esports and fashion. His status as a style icon and media mogul has kept him relevant long after hanging up his boots. Beckham’s ability to blend football fame with business savvy makes him a standout on this list.
5. Neymar Jr.: The Flamboyant Star
Net Worth: $250 million
Salary: $160 million annually
Team: Al Hilal, Saudi Arabia
Age: 32
Career Start: 2009
Neymar Jr., known for his dazzling dribbles and flair, holds the fifth spot with a net worth of $250 million. His career began at Santos in Brazil before blockbuster moves to Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain. In 2023, he joined Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, where his $160 million annual salary reflects the growing financial power of the Saudi Pro League. Neymar’s endorsements with Nike, Red Bull, and Puma add millions to his fortune.
Despite injury setbacks, Neymar’s global appeal remains strong, with a massive social media following and a flair for the spotlight. His investments in real estate and media ventures further bolster his wealth. Neymar’s combination of on-field creativity and off-field charisma ensures his place among football’s financial elite.
6. Dave Whelan: From Pitch to Business Empire
Net Worth: $230 million
Salary: $8 million (during his business career, not football)
Team: Retired (Blackburn Rovers, Crewe Alexandra)
Age: 88
Career Start: 1956
Dave Whelan, a lesser-known name to modern fans, ranks sixth with a net worth of $230 million. Unlike others on this list, Whelan’s wealth comes primarily from his business ventures rather than his playing career. A former defender for Blackburn Rovers and Crewe Alexandra, Whelan transitioned into entrepreneurship after a career-ending injury. He founded Whelan Discount Stores and later JJB Sports, selling the latter for £190 million in 2007.
Whelan’s ownership of Wigan Athletic was a defining chapter, leading the club to the Premier League and a historic FA Cup win in 2013. His business acumen and football legacy make him a unique figure on this list, proving that wealth can be built long after the final whistle.
7. Wayne Rooney: The English Legend
Net Worth: $216 million
Salary: $8 million (peak career)
Team: Retired (Everton, Manchester United, D.C. United, Derby County)
Age: 39
Career Start: 2002
Wayne Rooney, one of England’s greatest-ever players, ranks seventh with a net worth of $216 million. Known for his versatility and tenacity, Rooney became Manchester United’s all-time leading goal scorer and England’s top scorer for a time. His career spanned Everton, Manchester United, D.C. United, and Derby County, with a peak weekly salary of £300,000 at United.
Rooney’s wealth is bolstered by endorsement deals with Nike and others, as well as his ventures into coaching and media. Now a manager, Rooney’s marketability and football legacy continue to generate income. His story is one of grit, talent, and enduring commercial success.
8. Karim Benzema: The French Maestro
Net Worth: $200 million
Salary: $100 million annually
Team: Al-Ittihad, Saudi Arabia
Age: 37
Career Start: 2004
Karim Benzema, a Ballon d’Or winner and Real Madrid legend, ranks eighth with a net worth of $200 million. His prolific career at Real Madrid included five UEFA Champions League titles and countless goals. In 2023, he joined Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, where his $100 million annual salary reflects the region’s growing football investments.
Benzema’s endorsements with Adidas and others, combined with his on-field success, have built his fortune. His technical brilliance and leadership on the pitch continue to make him a global star, with a financial portfolio to match.
9. Zlatan Ibrahimović: The Charismatic Striker
Net Worth: $190 million
Salary: $7 million (peak career)
Team: Retired (ex-AC Milan)
Age: 43
Career Start: 1999
Zlatan Ibrahimović, known for his larger-than-life personality and spectacular goals, ranks ninth with a net worth of $190 million. His career spanned Ajax, Juventus, Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and AC Milan, with titles in multiple leagues. Zlatan’s endorsements with Nike, Volvo, and others, along with his investments in real estate, have secured his wealth.
Post-retirement, Ibrahimović remains a media and business figure, with ventures like his A-Z sportswear brand. His charisma and footballing prowess ensure his place among the sport’s financial elite.
10. Kylian Mbappé: The Rising Star
Net Worth: $180 million
Salary: $70 million annually
Team: Paris Saint-Germain, France
Age: 26
Career Start: 2015
Kylian Mbappé, one of football’s brightest young talents, rounds out the list with a net worth of $180 million. At just 26, his achievements include a World Cup win with France in 2018 and multiple Ligue 1 titles with PSG. His $70 million annual salary is complemented by deals with Nike, Hublot, and EA Sports.
Mbappé’s speed, skill, and marketability make him a global superstar, with his net worth expected to grow as he enters his prime. His potential move to a European giant like Real Madrid could further elevate his financial status.
The Business of Football Wealth
The wealth of these footballers is not solely derived from their salaries. Endorsements play a massive role, with brands like Nike, Adidas, and Pepsi paying millions to align with these stars. Social media amplifies their reach—Ronaldo’s Instagram posts alone can earn $1 million each. Investments in real estate, fashion, and sports franchises, like Beckham’s Inter Miami, are common, while unique cases like Bolkiah’s royal wealth highlight the diversity of income sources.
The rise of the Saudi Pro League has also reshaped football’s financial landscape. High-profile signings like Ronaldo, Neymar, and Benzema reflect the region’s ambition to become a football powerhouse, offering salaries that rival or exceed Europe’s top clubs. Meanwhile, younger players like Mbappé are leveraging their global appeal to build wealth early in their careers.
Conclusion: A Legacy Beyond the Pitch
The richest footballers of 2025 are more than athletes—they are global brands, entrepreneurs, and cultural icons. Faiq Bolkiah’s royal fortune sets him apart, but the likes of Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar have built their wealth through a combination of sporting excellence and business savvy. From Beckham’s media empire to Whelan’s retail success, these players demonstrate the diverse paths to financial greatness.
As football continues to evolve, new talents will likely join this elite list, driven by record-breaking transfer fees, lucrative sponsorships, and the sport’s growing global reach. The beautiful game remains a powerful engine of wealth, uniting fans and creating legends whose legacies endure both on and off the field.
