Footballers are experiencing unprecedented wealth, with the latest list revealing the Top 21 Richest Footballer in the World . Among them are well-known names such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, but one surprising addition has caught attention alongside these elite superstars.
The substantial earnings of these athletes stem not only from their lucrative salaries but also from various sponsorship deals and brand endorsements that significantly enhance their financial portfolios. It’s important to distinguish between being the highest-paid athlete in football and possessing the most significant overall net worth.
Factors beyond the sport itself contribute to each player’s total net worth. While agents diligently negotiate optimal client contracts, the most exceptional players often attract the most substantial offers.
With this context in mind, FC Bayern Net Worth provides an overview of the wealthiest footballers on the planet.
List of top 21 richest footballers in the world 2024
| Rank | Name | Net Worth |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lionel Messi | $650 Million |
| 2 | Cristiano Ronaldo | $600 Million |
| 3 | David Beckham | $450 Million |
| 4 | Neymar | $250 Million |
| 5 | Dave Whelan | $210 Million |
| 6 | Karim Benzema | $200 Million |
| 7 | Zlatan Ibrahimovic | $190 Million |
| 8 | Kylian Mbappé | $180 Million |
| 9 | Wayne Rooney | $170 Million |
| 10 | Ronaldo | $160 Million |
| 11 | Gareth Bale | $145 Million |
| 12 | Thierry Henry | $130 Million |
| 13 | Paul Pogba | $125 Million |
| 14 | Andrés Iniesta | $120 Million |
| 15 | Jose Mourinho | $120 Million |
| 16 | Mesut Özil | $120 Million |
| 17 | Zinedine Zidane | $120 Million |
| 18 | Eden Hazard | $100 Million |
| 19 | Pelé | $100 Million |
| 20 | Philipp Lahm | $100 Million |
| 21 | Raúl González Blanco | $100 Million |
Map comparing the top 21 richest football players in the world
Overview of information on the top 21 richest football players
Here are the top 21 richest footballers in 2024, featuring Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and more. Explore their net worth, salaries, and career highlights following.
Lionel Messi
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $650 million |
| Salary | $75 million per year (Paris Saint-Germain) |
| Team | Inter Miami, Argentina National Team |
| Records | 672 goals in 778 games for Barcelona |
| Awards | 7 Ballon d’Or, Olympic Gold Medal, World Cup |
Lionel Messi is among the wealthiest and most celebrated athletes, with a net worth of $650 million. His financial journey began at FC Barcelona, where he scored 672 goals in 778 games.
Messi’s earnings include a staggering annual salary of $75 million from Paris Saint-Germain and approximately $40 million annually from endorsements, including a lifetime deal with Adidas.
Messi’s accolades are numerous. He has won the Ballon d’Or seven times, an Olympic Gold Medal, and led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup. Despite what some sources claim, Messi is not a billionaire.
He has earned over $1.3 billion through salary and endorsements, but his net worth is $650 million. Messi plays for Inter Miami under a unique contract involving Apple’s MLS Season Pass revenue shares.
Cristiano Ronaldo
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $600 million |
| Salary | $210 million per year (Al Nassr) |
| Team | Al Nassr, Portugal National Team |
| Records | Over 800 career goals, 140 Champions League goals |
| Awards | 5 Ballon d’Or, 4 Golden Boot |
Cristiano Ronaldo, with a net worth of $600 million, is one of the wealthiest athletes globally. He has consistently ranked among the highest-paid entertainers, earning $100-150 million annually from his salary and endorsements.
Ronaldo earns $210 million per season playing for Al Nassr, making it the largest contract in sports history regarding earnings per season.
Ronaldo’s illustrious career is marked by record-breaking achievements that leave sports enthusiasts in awe.
His five Ballon d’Or awards, four Golden Boots, and seven league titles testify to his exceptional talent. He has scored over 800 career goals and holds records for the most goals in the Champions League (140).
His success on the field is matched by lucrative endorsement deals, notably a $1 billion lifetime deal with Nike.
David Beckham
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $450 million |
| Salary | $255 million over final six seasons in MLS, $50 million at PSG |
| Team | Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain |
| Records | First English player to win league titles in four countries |
| Awards | UEFA Club Footballer of the Year, Premier League titles, MLS Cups |
| Book | “David Beckham: My Side,” “David Beckham: Both Feet on the Ground” |
| Movie | “Bend It Like Beckham” (Cameo appearance) |
David Beckham’s net worth is estimated at $450 million. He was a retired English soccer player. That is the combined net worth of Beckham and his wife, singer/designer Victoria Beckham.
Known for his precision and versatility, he played for top clubs like Manchester United, Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain.
Beckham’s career includes significant achievements such as winning the treble with Manchester United and multiple MLS Cups with LA Galaxy.
Off the field, Beckham has built a strong brand, engaging in numerous business ventures and philanthropic activities, including ownership stakes in Inter Miami CF and Salford City.
Awards and Salary: Beckham’s financial success is as impressive as his on-field achievements. Throughout his illustrious career, he received numerous accolades, including the UEFA Club Footballer of the Year award.
His earnings include a staggering $255 million over his final six seasons in MLS and an annual salary of $50 million at Paris Saint-Germain.
Neymar
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $250 million |
| Salary | $160 million annually (current), previously $78 million base salary plus $20-40 million from bonuses and endorsements |
| Team | Paris Saint-Germain (current), previously Santos, Barcelona, and a Saudi team |
| Records | Highest-paid soccer player in 2017, part of the “MSN” trio with Messi and Suárez, most expensive transfer in 2017 |
| Awards | South American Footballer of the Year (2011, 2012), many domestic and international titles with clubs and national team |
| Endorsements | Nike, Panasonic, Volkswagen, Tenys Pé Baruel, Lupo, Ambev, Claro, Unilever, Santander |
| Personal Life | Son with Carolina Dantas, engaged to Bruna Biancardi, close relationship with sister Rafaella |
| Significant Earnings | $90 million (2021-2022) |
| Major Contracts | 5-year contract with Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, $119 million contract with Barcelona in 2013 |
Neymar, a Brazilian football sensation, is worth $250 million. Known for his exceptional skills, he has played for top clubs like Santos, Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain.
His annual salary reached an impressive $160 million after signing with a Saudi team in 2022.
Neymar’s career highlights include winning the South American Footballer of the Year twice and being part of the record-setting “MSN” trio.
His endorsements with brands like Nike and Panasonic have significantly boosted his earnings. Overall, Neymar’s financial success is a testament to his talent and marketability in football.
Dave Whelan
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $210 Million |
| Team | Retired |
| Records | Promoted Wigan to the Premier League (2005) |
| Awards | FA Cup Winner (2013 with Wigan) |
Dave Whelan is an English former professional soccer player with a net worth of $210 Million. He played for the Blackburn Rovers from 1956-60 and later for Crewe Alexandra F.C. A significant injury during an FA Cup Final ended his soccer career, but he successfully transitioned into business.
Whelan founded Whelan’s Discount Stores and later transformed JJB, a small sporting and fishing store, into the UK’s second-largest sports retailer.
He purchased Wigan Athletic in 1995 and led them to the Premier League in 2005. Whelan is also known for his conservative views and controversial actions, such as mandating a moment of silence for Margaret Thatcher.
Karim Benzema Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $200 million |
| Salary | $214,534,727 annually with Al-Ittihad |
| Team | Al-Ittihad (as of June 2023) |
| Records | Top French goalscorer in La Liga |
| Awards | Ballon d’Or, Multiple Champions League titles, LaLiga titles, Copas del Rey |
Karim Benzema is a prominent French soccer player with a net worth of $200 million. Renowned for his prowess on the field, he has been a critical player for Real Madrid and the French national team.
Benzema’s skills in goalscoring and playmaking have earned him numerous accolades, including the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
His move to Al-Ittihad in 2023, with a historic $436 million contract, marks a significant chapter in his career. Benzema’s financial success is complemented by his extensive list of titles, including five Champions League and four La Liga titles.
Zlatan Ibrahimović
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $190 million |
| Salary | $35 million (peak annual salary at Manchester United), $27 million (last year at Manchester United), $1.4 million (salary at LA Galaxy) |
| Team | Malmö FF, Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, LA Galaxy |
| Records | All-time leading goalscorer for Sweden (62 goals), the first to score 50 goals for both Milan clubs, and multiple league titles in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and France |
| Awards | Guldbollen (Swedish football player of the year), “Goal of the Year” (2004), various league titles, named second-greatest Swedish sportsperson by Dagens Nyheter |
| Movie | Becoming Zlatan (sports documentary released in February 2016) |
Zlatan Ibrahimović, a Swedish professional footballer, boasts a net worth of $190 million. His impact on the football world is undeniable, as he is widely regarded as one of the best strikers ever.
He has played for clubs like Ajax, Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and LA Galaxy.
His annual salary peaked at $35 million at Manchester United, and he earned $27 million in his final year there before joining LA Galaxy for $1.4 million annually.
He is Sweden’s all-time leading goalscorer with 62 goals and has received numerous accolades, including the Guldbollen and “Goal of the Year.” Beyond his club success, he has represented Sweden in multiple UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups.
Kylian Mbappé
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $180 million |
| Salary | $53 million base salary, $10 million endorsements |
| Team | Paris Saint-Germain |
| Records | Youngest French player to score in a World Cup final |
| Awards | Multiple Ligue 1 titles, Coupe de France titles |
Kylian Mbappé, a French professional soccer player, is worth $180 million. He is one of the highest-paid soccer players globally, earning a base salary of $53 million annually plus $10 million from endorsements.
He has won multiple Ligue 1 and Coupe de France titles with Paris Saint-Germain and was instrumental in France’s victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
He is the youngest French player to score in a World Cup final. His philanthropic efforts, including significant donations to charitable causes, showcase his commitment on and off the field.
Wayne Rooney
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $170 million |
| Salary | $26 million (peak annual salary) |
| Team | D.C. United (signed in 2017) |
| Records | Manchester United’s all-time top scorer, England national team’s all-time top scorer, and most Premier League goals scored for one club |
| Awards | Premier League Player of the Season, FIFA Club World Cup MVP, England Player of the Year (multiple times) |
| Book | My Story So Far, The Way It Is, My Decade in the Premier League |
Wayne Rooney, a celebrated British footballer and coach, boasts a net worth of $170 million. Throughout his career, he earned an annual salary of $26 million at its peak.
Rooney’s journey in football is adorned with numerous awards and accolades, including Premier League Player of the Season and FIFA Club World Cup Most Valuable Player.
Endorsement deals with major brands like Nike and Coca-Cola further bolster his financial success. Rooney’s achievements on the field and his commercial endeavors solidify his status as one of football’s wealthiest figures.
Ronaldo
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $160 million |
| Team | Real Valladolid (Owner) |
| Records | Youngest FIFA World Player of the Year (age 20), Youngest Ballon d’Or winner (age 21) |
| Awards | FIFA World Player of the Year (3 times), Ballon d’Or (2 times) |
Ronaldo, often called “R9” or “O Fenomeno,” has a net worth of $160 million. Renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, he led Brazil to a memorable World Cup victory in 2002.
Throughout his career, Ronaldo played for top clubs, including PSV Eindhoven, Barcelona, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid, often breaking transfer records.
Despite injuries cutting short his career, Ronaldo won the FIFA World Player of the Year award three times and the Ballon d’Or twice.
Post-retirement, he engaged in philanthropy and owned Real Valladolid and Cruzeiro. His technical skills and influential playstyle mark his enduring legacy in football.
Gareth Bale
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $145 million |
| Salary | $25 million annually |
| Team | Tottenham (on loan from Real Madrid) |
| Records | Most goals for the Welsh national team |
| Awards | Multiple Champions League titles, Copa del Rey |
Gareth Bale, known for his phenomenal speed and technical abilities, boasts a net worth of $145 million. Starting as a defender but quickly transitioning to a striker, he made a record-breaking transfer to Real Madrid.
Despite facing challenges, including injuries and criticism from fans and media, he achieved notable successes like scoring the winning goal in the 2014 Copa del Rey Final and contributing to Real Madrid’s Champions League victories.
His annual salary is $25 million, supplemented by $9 million from endorsements. Outside the club scene, he is a pivotal player for the Welsh national team, holding the record for most goals scored.
Gareth’s brand endorsements include Adidas, Lucozade, and EA Sports, enhancing his financial portfolio.
Thierry Henry
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $130 million |
| Salary | $5 million per year (at peak with New York Red Bulls) |
| Team | Retired (played for Monaco, Juventus, Arsenal, Barcelona, New York Red Bulls) |
| Records | Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer, 4-time Golden Boot winner |
| Awards | FIFA World Cup (1998), UEFA Euro (2000) |
Thierry Henry, a retired French footballer, is worth $130 million. Renowned for his tenure at Arsenal, he became the club’s all-time leading scorer and clinched the Golden Boot four times.
His career also saw significant stints at Barcelona and the New York Red Bulls, where he earned an annual salary of $5 million at his peak, making him the highest-paid player in MLS.
Henry’s contributions to the French national team were pivotal, helping secure victories in the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 UEFA Euro.
Post-retirement, he transitioned into coaching, taking managerial roles at Monaco and Montreal Impact. Beyond football, his marketability shone through numerous brand endorsements, particularly with Nike, Reebok, and Puma.
Paul Pogba
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $125 million |
| Salary | $28 million per year |
| Team | Manchester United |
| Records | Joint top assist provider (2016) |
| Awards | World Cup Winner (2018), Euro 2016 Runner-up |
Paul Pogba, a French professional soccer player, has an impressive net worth of $125 million. Known for his dynamic midfield play, he has earned this wealth through a $28 million annual base salary and $6-10 million per year from endorsements.
Pogba plays for Manchester United and has previously played for Juventus. He is a crucial player for the French national team, contributing significantly to their World Cup victory 2018 and their runner-up finish in Euro 2016.
Pogba’s career started in France, and his journey to becoming one of the highest-paid soccer players includes notable controversies and achievements.
Despite criticisms and a rocky relationship with former manager José Mourinho, Pogba has consistently demonstrated his talent on the field. Off the pitch, his endorsement deals, especially with Adidas, further bolster his financial standing.
Pogba’s story is one of resilience and excellence, making him a fascinating figure in soccer and an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
Andres Iniesta
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $120 million |
| Salary | $30 million per year |
| Team | Emirates (UAE Pro League) |
| Records | Winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final |
| Awards | UEFA Euro 2008, FIFA World Cup 2010, Euro 2012, multiple La Liga and Champions League titles |
Andres Iniesta, a Spanish professional footballer, has amassed a net worth of $120 million.
Known for his impressive career at Barcelona, he played a pivotal role in the club’s numerous victories, including two historic trebles in 2009 and 2015.
His successful tenure at Vissel Kobe in Japan further solidified his financial standing, as he earned $30 million annually.
In 2023, he joined the Emirates club in the UAE Pro League, continuing his lucrative career. Iniesta’s accolades include UEFA Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and Euro 2012.
His enduring legacy is marked by his significant contributions to club and national teams, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication.
José Mourinho
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $120 million |
| Salary | $27 million per year (Manchester United contract) |
| Records | Guinness World Records for ‘Longest football unbeaten home run by a manager’ and ‘Youngest football manager to reach 100 UEFA Champions League matches’ |
| Awards | FIFA World Coach of the Year, Premier League Manager of the Season, UEFA Manager of the Year, and more |
| Movie | Voiced Pope Francis in an animated film approved by the Vatican |
José Mourinho, widely regarded for his unique approach to football, boasts a net worth of $120 million. His career, marked by a blend of coaching theory and motivational techniques, has earned him numerous accolades, including FIFA World Coach of the Year and Premier League Manager of the Season.
His salary reached $27 million per year during his tenure at Manchester United, and he has accumulated approximately $60 million from various contract buyouts.
Mourinho’s vibrant personality and quirky comments have made him a media favorite. His contributions to football have been recognized with prestigious awards, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s top managers.
Mesut Özil
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $120 million |
| Salary | $24 million annually |
| Team | Arsenal (latest) |
| Records | Most assists in European leagues |
| Awards | 2014 FIFA World Cup, German Player of the Year (3 times) |
Mesut Özil, a celebrated German footballer, has amassed a net worth of $120 million. Renowned for his creative playmaking and intelligence on the field, Özil has played for top clubs, including Real Madrid and Arsenal.
He signed a historic contract at Arsenal, doubling his salary to $24 million annually, making him the club’s highest-paid player.
His accolades include winning the 2014 FIFA World Cup with Germany and being named German Player of the Year thrice.
Despite his later years being marred by controversies and a drop in form, his contributions to football remain significant.
Zinedine Zidane
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $120 million |
| Salary | $14 million USD annually with Real Madrid |
| Team | Real Madrid (Manager) |
| Records | Three consecutive Champions League titles |
| Awards | Multiple titles as a player and manager |
Zinedine Zidane, with a net worth of $120 million, has had an extraordinary career both on and off the field.
His annual salary as the manager of Real Madrid stands at USD 14 million. Numerous awards and records have marked Zidane’s career as a player and manager.
He led Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles, a feat that solidified his status as one of the most successful managers in history.
His playing style was known for impressive technique and vision, contributing significantly to his success. Despite facing controversies, Zidane’s legacy in football remains unparalleled.
Eden Hazard
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Team | Real Madrid |
| Awards | Multiple individual honors, including UNFP Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year, UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Year, PFA Young Player of the Year |
Eden Hazard, a renowned Belgian soccer player, boasts a net worth of $100 million. He has had a distinguished career playing as an attacking midfielder and winger.
From 2007 to 2012, he made his mark with Lille, scoring 50 goals in 192 appearances. His success continued at Chelsea from 2012 to 2019, when he netted 30 goals in 111 appearances.
Currently, he plays for Real Madrid, having transferred in 2019.
Hazard’s accolades are numerous. He has won the Ligue 1 and Coupe de France with Lille in the 2010-11 season and the UEFA Europa League with Chelsea in 2012-13.
His individual honors include the UNFP Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year (twice), UNFP Ligue 1 Player of the Year (twice), and the PFA Young Player of the Year.
Additionally, he has been part of the Premier League PFA Team of the Year multiple times.
Pelé
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Salary | $10 million (inflation-adjusted peak) |
| Team | Santos FC, New York Cosmos |
| Records | Most goals in the top division (541), 1297 goals in all tournaments, Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer (77 goals) |
| Awards | FIFA World Cup (1958, 1962, 1970) |
With a net worth of $100 million, Pelé is celebrated as one of the greatest soccer players ever. His financial success stemmed from a combination of his salary and endorsements. At his peak in the mid-1970s, he earned the inflation-adjusted equivalent of $10 million annually, making him the highest-paid athlete globally. His professional career began at Santos FC, where he became a star.
Later, he joined the New York Cosmos, further boosting his income and popularity. In addition to his on-field success, Pele continued to earn significant amounts from endorsements with major brands like Puma.
Regarding awards, Pele’s illustrious career includes winning three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970). His salary at the height of his career was impressive, reflecting his status in the sports world. However, it’s not just his financial achievements that define him.
Pele’s ambassadorial work, representing football worldwide and advocating for better conditions in Brazil, is equally significant. His life and career, a testament to his exceptional talent, also serve as a reminder of his enduring legacy in soccer and his impact beyond the field.
Philipp Lahm
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Team | Bayern Munich (Retired) |
| Records | Multiple Bundesliga Titles |
| Awards | FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League |
| Book | The Subtle Difference – How to Become a Top Footballer |
Philipp Lahm, a former German football player, is worth $100 million. Known for his versatility as both a left-back and right-back, Lahm’s career is a testament to consistency and technical prowess. He captained Bayern Munich and the German national team, leading Germany to a historic World Cup victory in 2014.
His club career peaked during the 2012-2013 season when Bayern Munich won the treble: the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and UEFA Champions League. After retiring in 2017, Lahm transitioned into management, contributing to Germany’s successful bid to host the 2024 UEFA European Championship.
Off the field, Lahm is a dedicated philanthropist who runs the Philipp Lahm Foundation for Sport and Education and supports disadvantaged youth.
Raúl González Blanco
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Net Worth | $100 million |
| Team | Real Madrid, Schalke 04, Al Sadd, New York Cosmos |
| Records | 228 goals in 550 appearances for Real Madrid |
| Awards | 6 La Liga titles, 3 UEFA Champions League titles, Ballon d’Or Silver Award (2001), FIFA World Player of the Year Bronze Award (2001) |
Raúl González Blanco, a retired Spanish soccer player, boasts a net worth of $100 million. Born in Madrid in June 1977, he made his mark as a striker with an illustrious career. Raúl’s journey began in youth teams such as San Cristobal, Atletico Madrid, and Real Madrid.
His senior debut for Real Madrid C in 1994 was the start of a remarkable tenure with Real Madrid’s first team, where he scored 228 goals in 550 matches from 1994 to 2010.
Raúl continued his career with Schalke 04, Al Sadd, and New York Cosmos, achieving significant milestones at each club. Internationally, he represented Spain across various levels, scoring 44 goals in 102 caps.
His accolades include six La Liga titles, three UEFA Champions League titles, a Ballon d’Or Silver Award in 2001, and the FIFA World Player of the Year Bronze Award in the same year. These achievements underline his prowess on the field and contribute to his substantial net worth.
Conclusion
The financial landscape of football has shifted dramatically, showcasing the immense wealth of players like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Their earnings reflect their on-field success, lucrative endorsements, and strategic financial decisions.
Understanding these athletes’ wealth and financial strategies as football grows in popularity offers valuable insights into the sport’s evolving economic dynamics.
For more insights into football stars’ wealth, feel free to leave comments, share your thoughts, or explore additional content at FC Bayern Net Worth.
I’m Archie Rhind-Tutt, a sports correspondent for ESPN, specializing in German soccer, particularly the Bundesliga. My reporting brings in-depth analysis and engaging storytelling to a global audience. Additionally, I author FC Bayern Net Worth (fcbayernnetworth.com), a website similar to Celebrity Net Worth but focused exclusively on football players. There, I explore and analyze the financial aspects and net worth of football stars, providing insights into their earnings and financial decisions. My expertise in sports finance allows me to deliver detailed and compelling content for readers interested in the economic intricacies of the football world.
