Top 10 Richest Footballers in the World in 2025 (Ranked by Net Worth)

Football, the world’s most loved sport, does far more than inspire fans and shape legends, it builds vast empires of wealth. As the sport continues to capture global attention, the bank accounts of top-tier players expand through massive contracts, lucrative endorsements, and smart investments. If you’ve ever asked, “Who is the richest footballer in the world in 2025?” you’re about to find out.

While names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Kylian Mbappé dominate football headlines, the richest footballer in 2025 may surprise you. Topping the list is Faiq Bolkiah, whose wealth comes not from goals, but gold heir to a royal fortune.

🥇 1. Faiq Bolkiah – $20 Billion (Brunei)

• Club: Ratchaburi FC (Thai League 1)

• Income Source: Royal Family Wealth

• Current Salary: $2,900/month

• Endorsements: None

• Status: Active

Faiq Bolkiah is the undisputed richest footballer in the world in 2025. As a member of the Brunei royal family, his staggering $20 billion net worth overshadows every other player. While he plays professionally in Thailand, his football salary is minimal. His wealth is inherited, not earned from football—making him a unique case in global sports.

🥈 2. Cristiano Ronaldo – $1 Billion (Portugal)

• Club: Al Nassr (Saudi Pro League)

• Current Salary: ~$200 million/year

• Endorsements: Nike (lifetime deal), CR7, Herbalife, Clear

• Off-field Income: ~$65 million/year

• Status: Active

Cristiano Ronaldo is more than a footballer—he’s a brand. In 2025, his net worth surpassed $1 billion, making him the first footballer to do so from earnings alone. His lifetime Nike deal, CR7 businesses (hotels, underwear, fitness), and record-breaking contract in Saudi Arabia make him the highest-paid athlete globally.

🥉 3. Lionel Messi – $850 Million (Argentina)

• Club: Inter Miami (MLS)

• Salary: $60 million/year

• Endorsements: Adidas, Pepsi, Budweiser, Socios

• Investments: Tech startups, Play Time Sports-Tech

• Status: Active

Lionel Messi, one of the greatest footballers of all time, has built a financial empire. With over $1.3 billion in career earnings, Messi’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $850 million. His business interests include hotels, a tech company, and equity stakes. He’s also the face of Adidas with a $10M/year lifetime deal.

4. David Beckham – $450 Million (England)

• Club: Retired

• Income: 100% off-field

• Businesses: Inter Miami CF, Haig Club, Kent & Curwen

• Status: Retired

Even after retirement, Beckham remains one of the richest footballers in the world. His ownership stake in Inter Miami CF, endorsement deals, and lifestyle brand ventures keep his bank balance growing. Beckham’s image is timeless, making him one of the most marketable athletes in history.

5. Neymar Jr. – $250 Million (Brazil)

• Club: Santos FC (Brazil, return from Al Hilal)

• Salary: $138 million/year (at Al Hilal)

• Endorsements: Puma, Volkswagen, Claro

• Status: Active

Neymar continues to be one of the richest footballers in 2025, with an estimated net worth of $250 million. His record transfer fees, big Saudi salary, and major endorsements place him comfortably in the top five. Neymar’s charisma and massive social following make him a brand magnet.

6. Dave Whelan – $230 Million (England)

• Club: Retired

• Businesses: JJB Sports, Former Wigan Athletic Owner

• Status: Retired

Unlike most others on this list, Dave Whelan earned his fortune after football. A former player for Blackburn Rovers, Whelan turned businessman and grew JJB Sports into a retail giant. His ownership of Wigan Athletic saw the club win the FA Cup in 2013. He is a symbol of entrepreneurial success in football.

7. Wayne Rooney – $216 Million (England)

• Club: Retired (Coach/Media)

• Income Source: Coaching, Media, Endorsements

• Status: Retired

Rooney, one of England’s finest players, amassed a massive fortune through Premier League and MLS contracts. His endorsement deals with Nike, Coca-Cola, and EA Sports added millions. Post-retirement, he transitioned into coaching and punditry, sustaining his earnings.

8. Karim Benzema – $200 Million (France)

• Club: Al Ittihad (Saudi Arabia)

• Salary: $100 million/year

• Endorsements: Adidas, EA Sports

• Status: Active

Karim Benzema saw his net worth skyrocket after his move to Saudi Arabia. Earning $100 million annually, he ranks among the world’s top-paid footballers. His consistent performances for Real Madrid and France earned him endorsements and a place on Forbes’ highest-paid athlete list.

9. Zlatan Ibrahimović – $190 Million (Sweden)

• Club: Retired

• Business Ventures: Zlatan Unplugged, Sports Agency

• Endorsements: Nike, Volvo

• Status: Retired

Zlatan’s legacy isn’t just about goals—it’s also about building wealth. With a strong personality and global appeal, he leveraged his popularity into perfume lines, ad campaigns, and investments. His $190 million fortune reflects both his football brilliance and business acumen.

10. Kylian Mbappé – $180 Million (France)

• Club: Real Madrid (2025 transfer)

• Salary: €15 million/year + $150 million signing bonus

• Endorsements: Nike, Dior, Oakley, Hublot

• Status: Active

Mbappé is not just the future of football—he’s already one of its richest stars. At just 26, his deal with Real Madrid and global endorsements make him a financial powerhouse. With a career still climbing, Mbappé could soon rival Messi and Ronaldo in net worth.

🌍 Final Thoughts

The list of the top 10 richest footballers in the world in 2025 proves that football is as much about business as it is about sport. With lucrative salaries, billion-dollar endorsements, and growing ventures in fashion, tech, and real estate, today’s footballers are building lasting legacies.

Whether you’re a fan or investor, these athletes represent the intersection of sport, fame, and financial mastery.