10. Ronaldo Nazário (Net Worth: $160 Million)

Ronaldo Fenômeno, the Brazilian football icon, is ranked as the tenth richest footballer globally. Renowned for his incredible skills on the field, he has also built an impressive business empire. His holding company, ODDZ, manages multiple businesses, including Octagon Latin America Agency, Ronaldo TV, Beyond Films, Wayz Travel, and Base. In April 2024, he significantly increased his fortune by selling his shares in Cruzeiro for 109 million euros (R$ 600 million). Ronaldo still holds investments in USL club Fort Lauderdale Strikers and Spain's Real Valladolid. Additionally, he owns the sports agency 9ine Sports & Entertainment, which played a role in discovering Neymar. Through R9 Gestão Patrimonial, a wealth management company he founded in 2018, and its expansion into Galáticos Capital, he oversees the assets of top athletes, including Arsenal's Gabriel Jesus.

9. Kylian Mbappé (Net Worth: $180 Million)

One of football's biggest earners, Kylian Mbappé ranks ninth among the richest footballers. While his annual salary at Real Madrid is lower than the €70 million he earned at PSG, his strategic negotiations secured him massive signing bonuses—€11 million for his PSG move and €100 million for his Real Madrid transfer. His wealth continues to grow with a lucrative 80% image rights deal at Madrid. Sponsorships with Nike, Hublot, Dior, and Oakley further boost his earnings by an additional €18 million annually.

8. Zlatan Ibrahimović (Net Worth: $190 Million)

The Swedish football legend, Zlatan Ibrahimović, ranks eighth due to his successful career and business ventures with his partner, Helena Seger. He has invested heavily in real estate, owning properties in Sweden and a 1,000-square-meter luxury residence in Stockholm. Through brand partnerships with Vitamin Well and Volvo, he has significantly expanded his wealth. Despite financial setbacks in ventures like Downtheline Holding and his A-Z clothing line, Zlatan remains influential in football, serving as a senior advisor to AC Milan through RedBird Capital Partners.

7. Wayne Rooney (Net Worth: $216 Million)

Wayne Rooney, Manchester United's all-time leading goal scorer, ranks seventh on the list. His immense fortune stems from both his playing career and off-field ventures. Rooney was one of the highest-paid footballers during his peak, earning £300,000 per week at Manchester United. His move to D.C. United further expanded his international profile. Sponsorships with Nike and Coca-Cola, along with smart real estate investments, have helped him build a lasting financial legacy. Now a football manager, Rooney continues to earn significantly while maintaining his status as one of the sport's wealthiest figures.

6. Dave Whelan (Net Worth: $230 Million)

Former footballer-turned-businessman Dave Whelan is the sixth richest footballer. The ex-Wigan Athletic owner built his wealth through JJB Sports, selling the retail chain for £190 million in 2007. Though he has stepped back from both football and business, his legacy remains, particularly through Wigan's DW Stadium, which bears his initials.

5. Neymar (Net Worth: $250 Million)

One of the world's highest-paid athletes, Neymar earned €100 million annually in Saudi Arabia. Over his career, he has amassed at least $717.5 million through salaries and endorsement deals with Puma, Red Bull, and PokerStars. His lavish lifestyle includes a Boeing 747-400 private jet worth $220 million. Managed by NR Sports, his brand partnerships and collaborations with entertainment stars further solidify his financial empire.

4. David Beckham (Net Worth: $450 Million)

With a net worth of $450 million, David Beckham remains one of the richest football figures. His DB Ventures company has secured deals with Adidas, Tudor watches, and Haig Club whisky. Beckham made headlines by selling 55% of DB Ventures to Authentic Brands Group for $230 million. His ownership of Inter Miami, purchased for $25 million in 2014, has seen a massive increase in value, especially following Lionel Messi's arrival. Beckham's real estate portfolio spans luxurious properties in London, Miami, Dubai, and the English countryside.

3. Lionel Messi (Net Worth: $650 Million)

With over $1 billion in career earnings, Lionel Messi ranks third on this list. His transfers to PSG and Inter Miami have been financially rewarding, with lucrative contracts boosting his fortune. His endorsement deals with Apple, Adidas, Pepsi, and Budweiser contribute significantly to his $135 million annual income. Messi also owns MIM Hotels and has launched Play Time Sports-Tech, a $200 million investment company. His business acumen has cemented his status as one of the richest footballers in history.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Net Worth: $800 Million)

Cristiano Ronaldo, with a net worth of $800 million, is the second richest footballer. His record-breaking €200 million annual salary at Al Nassr sets him apart financially. Outside football, his CR7 brand, hotel chain, and investments in Insparya hair clinics and bottled water brand Ursu9 contribute significantly to his wealth. His massive social media following further enhances his commercial success, solidifying his position as one of football's top earners.

1. Faiq Bolkiah (Net Worth: $20 Billion)



Faiq Bolkiah, a member of Brunei's royal family, is the world's richest footballer, with an estimated net worth of $20 billion. His wealth is derived from his family's $30 billion fortune rather than football earnings. Having played for Leicester City, Chelsea, and Marítimo, he now plays for Ratchaburi FC in Thailand. Unlike other footballers on this list, Bolkiah's financial status is due to inheritance rather than commercial success or sporting achievements.