List of Top 20 Football Players in the World 2024
List of Top 20 Football Players in the World in 2024
Football, also known as soccer in some parts of the world, is not just a game anymore—it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry. Within this vast ecosystem, football players stand out as some of the wealthiest and most influential individuals on the planet. Let’s delve into the world of football players and explore their staggering net worth.
As of 2024, the football world has witnessed astronomical growth in player earnings, with contracts, endorsements, and investments driving players’ wealth to unprecedented levels. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top 20 richest football players in the world as of 2024, based on their net worth, endorsements, and other financial engagements.
At the summit of football’s financial hierarchy are players whose names resonate globally. Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar Jr., and Kylian Mbappe are household names not just for their exceptional skills on the pitch but also for their astronomical net worth off it.
Top 20 Richest Footballers
1. Faiq Bolkiah (United States of America)
Net Worth: $20 Billion
Faiq Bolkiah is an intriguing figure in the world of football, not just for his skills on the pitch but also for his unique background and family ties to immense wealth.
Despite coming from a wealthy background, Faiq Bolkiah chose to pursue a career in professional football. He began his youth career at AFC Newbury in England before joining Southampton’s academy in 2009. Bolkiah’s talent as a versatile attacker quickly caught the attention of scouts, and he represented Brunei at various youth levels. In 2016, Faiq Bolkiah signed a professional contract with Leicester City, joining their under-23 squad.
His time at Leicester City provided him with valuable experience in the highly competitive English football system. As of 2024′ his Net Worth is $20 billion.
2. Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Net Worth: $600 Million
Lionel Messi is undoubtedly one of the greatest footballers of all time, known for his exceptional skill, vision, and goal-scoring prowess. Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi’s journey to becoming a footballing legend is nothing short of remarkable.
Lionel Messi has an astounding net worth that reflects his immense success both on and off the pitch. As of 2024, Messi’s net worth is estimated to be around $600 million. Lionel Messi’s net worth is a testament to his unparalleled success as a footballer, coupled with strategic business decisions and endorsement deals. Beyond his financial achievements, Messi’s impact on the world of football and his philanthropic efforts showcase his influence both on and off the pitch.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
Net Worth: $500 Million
Cristiano Ronaldo is a football icon whose name is synonymous with excellence, dedication, and unparalleled success. Born on February 5, 1985, in Madeira, Portugal, Ronaldo’s journey to becoming one of the greatest footballers of all time is a testament to his extraordinary talent and relentless work ethic.
As of 2024, Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth is estimated to be around $500 million. However, this figure can vary slightly depending on different sources and fluctuations in his earnings and investments. Cristiano Ronaldo’s net worth reflects his incredible success as both a footballer and a savvy entrepreneur. His earnings from football salaries, endorsements, business ventures, investments, and philanthropy collectively contribute to his status as one of the wealthiest athletes globally.
4. David Beckham (England)
Net Worth: $450 Million
David Beckham is an English former professional footballer, widely recognized for his exceptional skills on the field, iconic style, and global influence both during and after his playing career. Born on May 2, 1975, in London, Beckham’s journey to becoming a football and cultural icon is a testament to his talent, hard work, and charisma.
David Beckham’s net worth reflects his successful football career, astute business acumen, and global influence as a cultural icon. His earnings from football, endorsements, business ventures, investments, and philanthropy collectively contribute to his status as one of the wealthiest and most recognizable personalities in the world of sports and entertainment.
As of 2024, David Beckham’s net worth is estimated to be around $450 million. However, this figure can fluctuate based on various factors such as business ventures, investments, and market changes.
5. Dave Whelan (England)
Net Worth: $210 Million
Dave Whelan, a former English footballer turned businessman, is widely known for his contributions to both the sport and the business world. Born on November 24, 1936, in Bradford, England, Whelan’s journey is marked by achievements in football and entrepreneurship.
Dave Whelan’s estimated net worth is a result of his successful ventures in supermarkets, sports retail, investments, and property, among other areas. However, due to the private nature of his financial information, the exact figure may vary. Whelan’s legacy extends beyond financial success, encompassing his contributions to football, business, and philanthropy.
As of 2024, Dave Whelan’s net worth is estimated to be around $210 million. However, it’s important to note that specific and up-to-date figures for his net worth may not be readily available as private individuals like Whelan often keep their financial details private.
6. Neymar Jr. (Brazil)
Net Worth: $200 Million
Neymar Jr., born Neymar da Silva Santos Junior on February 5, 1992, in Mogi das Cruzes, Sao Paulo, Brazil, is a football superstar renowned for his exceptional skills, creativity, and flair on the pitch.
Neymar Jr.’s net worth reflects his success as one of the world’s top footballers, coupled with strategic business decisions, endorsements, investments, and philanthropy. His commercial appeal and marketability extend beyond the football pitch, making him a prominent figure in sports and entertainment industries with a substantial financial portfolio.
As of 2024, Neymar Jr.’s net worth is estimated to be around $200 million. However, these figures can fluctuate over time due to various factors such as football contracts, endorsements, investments, and other business ventures.
Also Read: Brazil Secures Copa America Victory with 3-1 Win Against Peru in 2019
7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Sweden)
Net Worth: $190 Million
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of football’s most colorful and successful personalities, known for his exceptional skills, confidence, and charisma. Born on October 3, 1981, in Malmo, Sweden, Ibrahimovic has had a remarkable career playing for some of the world’s top clubs and earning numerous accolades.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s net worth of around $190 million is a testament to his successful football career, savvy business decisions, and lucrative endorsement deals. His ability to remain relevant and marketable both on and off the field has solidified his status as one of the wealthiest and most influential footballers in the world.
8. Kylian Mbappe (France)
Net Worth: $180 Million
Kylian Mbappe is one of the most electrifying and talented footballers of his generation, known for his incredible speed, dribbling skills, and goal-scoring prowess. Born on December 20, 1998, in Bondy, France, Mbappe’s meteoric rise in the football world has been nothing short of spectacular.
Also Read: The 2018 FIFA World Cup Final Preview: France vs Croatia Showdown
Kylian Mbappe’s estimated net worth is a testament to his extraordinary talent, marketability, and business acumen. His earnings from football contracts, endorsements, business ventures, and strategic investments have positioned him as one of the wealthiest and most influential athletes in the world. As his career progresses, his net worth is expected to grow even further, solidifying his status as a football legend and a prominent figure in the sports and business arenas.
As of 2024, Kylian Mbappe’s net worth is estimated to be around $180 million. His impressive wealth is the result of his successful football career, lucrative endorsement deals, and various business ventures.Â
9. Wayne Rooney (England)
Net Worth: $170 Million
Wayne Rooney, born on October 24, 1985, in Liverpool, England, is one of the most iconic footballers in the history of English football. Known for his versatility, goal-scoring ability, and leadership on the pitch, Rooney has enjoyed a successful career both as a player and now as a manager.
Wayne Rooney’s net worth of around $170 million is a testament to his success both on and off the football pitch. His football career, spanning top clubs and international stardom, along with lucrative endorsements and smart business ventures, have built him a substantial financial portfolio. Rooney’s transition to a managerial role and continued influence in the football world suggest that his net worth may continue to grow in the future.
10. Ronaldo Luis Nazario (Brazil)
Net Worth: $160 Million
Ronaldo Luis Nazario de Lima, commonly known as Ronaldo or “O Fenomeno” (The Phenomenon), is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Born on September 18, 1976, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Ronaldo’s extraordinary career was marked by his incredible goal-scoring ability, speed, and technical skills.
Ronaldo Luis Nazario’s net worth of approximately $160 million is a testament to his extraordinary talent, marketability, and business acumen. His earnings from football, endorsements, business ventures, and investments have solidified his financial status. Ronaldo’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time, combined with his successful transition into business, ensures that his influence and wealth will continue to grow.
Also Read: 2002 FIFA World Cup Final: Brazil’s Victory Over Germany
11. Gareth Bale (Wales)
Net Worth: $145 Million
Gareth Bale is one of the most talented and well-known footballers of his generation, known for his incredible speed, technical ability, and goal-scoring prowess. Born on July 16, 1989, in Cardiff, Wales, Bale has enjoyed a successful career at both the club and international levels.Â
Gareth Bale’s net worth of approximately $145 million is a testament to his successful football career, lucrative endorsements, and smart business ventures. His earnings from football, endorsements, and investments have solidified his financial status. Bale’s continued influence in the football world and his business endeavors ensure that his wealth will likely continue to grow in the future.
Also Read: Corruption in Football: Foul Play- A Deep Dive into Football Scandals
12. Thierry Henry (France)
Net Worth: $130 Million
Thierry Henry, one of football’s iconic figures, was born on August 17, 1977, in Les Ulis, France. His illustrious career as a forward spanned several top clubs and the French national team, earning him a place among the sport’s all-time greats.
As of 2024, Thierry Henry’s net worth is estimated to be around $130 million. Overall, Thierry Henry’s net worth reflects his successful and multifaceted career in football, endorsements, coaching, business, and his ongoing impact in the sports and entertainment industries.
13. Paul Pogba (France)
Net Worth: $125 Million
Paul Pogba, a professional soccer player from France, started out with the Le Havre team before joining Manchester United. After spending a brief time at Manchester United FC, Pogba joined Juventus in 2012 and eventually returned to the UK in 2016.
Pogba led the French national team to victory in the 2018 World Cup and participated for them in the Euro 2016 competition. Paul Pogba’s estimated net worth as of 2024 is $125 million.
14. Andres Iniesta (Spain)
Net Worth: $120 Million
Andres Iniesta, a Spanish soccer player, began playing at a young age and enrolled in FC Barcelona’s youth academy as a youngster. In 2002, he advanced to the Spanish soccer team FC Barcelona, where he has been regarded as one of their finest players ever since.
One of the richest soccer players on the planet, he signed a $30 million contract with the Japanese club Vissel Kobe in 2018. Iniesta’s estimated net worth as of 2024 is $120 million.
15. Jose Mourinho (Portuguese)
Net Worth: $120 Million
Jose Mourinho, the current manager of Tottenham Hotspur and a retired Portuguese soccer player, has a $120 million net worth. He was named the Portuguese Coach of the Century in 2015 and has managed clubs in addition to coaching since the early 1990s.
He was recognized as the FIFA World Coach of the Year in 2010 and has won several times as the Premier League Manager of the Season.
16. Mesut Ozil (Germany)
Net Worth: $120 Million
German soccer player Mesut Ozil, who started his professional career in the German Bundesliga, has a net worth of $120 million. Since then, he has continued to play soccer for elite clubs like Real Madrid and Arsenal, the latter of which has contributed significantly to his outstanding net worth.
He owns homes in some of the priciest cities on earth, including a $14 million mansion in London, United Kingdom.
17. Zinedine Zidane (France)
Net Worth: $120 Million
Zinedine Zidane, a retired professional soccer player, has numerous titles and trophies to his name, most notably from his time spent at Real Madrid. Because of his extraordinary talent on the field, Zidane was able to earn a salary of approximately $14 million year while he was a player for Real Madrid.
After retiring from playing, Zidane went into management, joining Real Madrid as their manager in 2016. In addition, he has made cameos in a number of movies and TV shows, most notably the animated comedy Family Guy, which stars Seth MacFarlane.
With an estimated net worth of $120 million as of June 2024, Zidane is ranked 15th on our list of the richest soccer players in the world.
18. Eden Hazard (Belgium)
Net Worth: $100 Million
Before joining Real Madrid in 2019, Belgian soccer star Eden Hazard was a midfielder and winger for Chelsea from 2012 to 2019. Hazard has played for Real Madrid, Chelsea, and the Belgian national team in addition to Lille, where he has won competitions.
In addition to earning an average salary of $15 million year, he has won multiple Young Players of the Year accolades. Hazard’s estimated net worth as of June 2024 is $100 million.
19. Pele (Brazil)
Net Worth: $100 Million
Pele, a Brazilian soccer player who at the height of his career was the highest-paid athlete in the world, is one of the most well-known names in sports history. Pele, who started his career with Santos FC and was selected for the national squad for the 1958 and 1962 World Cups, is a national hero in his native country.
Aside from athletics, he had screen time with some of the wealthiest actors in the world, such as Sylvester Stallone and Michael Caine. His true name is Edson Arantes do Nascimento, but he mispronounced goalie Bile’s name, therefore he adopted the alias Pele.
Pele’s projected net worth as of June 2024 is $100 million.
20. Philipp Lahm (Germany)
Net Worth: $100 Million
Philipp Lahm is a German soccer player who has played for Bayern Munich and the German national team in the World Cup. He has had a lengthy and distinguished career in the sport. Because of his height, Lahm was nicknamed “Magic Dwarf.” He participated in World Cup teams in 2006 and 2010, as well as the UEFA team in 2008 and 2012.
Lahm was the only member of the German team to play every minute in the 2010 World Cup. Philipp Lahm’s estimated net worth as of June 2024 is $100 million.
