Top 10 richest footballers in the world as of 2025

Football isn’t just about goals and glory—it’s also big business. And by 2025, some of the sport’s biggest stars have turned their on-field success into staggering personal fortunes. From multimillion-pound contracts and global brand deals to smart investments and booming side businesses, these players have built empires that go far beyond the pitch.

Some have already hung up their boots, but their wealth keeps growing. Others are still playing, earning eye-watering sums week after week. While not all of them are the best players today, they’ve all stayed in the spotlight—and kept the money flowing.

In this list, we count down the 10 richest footballers in the world in 2025. Some of the names might surprise you. Others are exactly who you'd expect. The rankings are based on estimated net worth, factoring in everything from playing contracts to endorsements and personal ventures.

And wait until you see the gap between the top spot and the rest—it’s massive. Still, every player on this list has reached a level of wealth that most people can only dream of.

In this article, let’s look at the richest footballer in the world in 2025.

10. Kylian Mbappé – £180 million

At just 26 years old, Kylian Mbappé has already cemented his place among football’s financial elite. His high-profile transfer to Real Madrid in 2024 was finalized with record-breaking figures, reflecting his immense value on and off the pitch. 

Beyond club contracts, Mbappé has secured lucrative endorsement deals with global brands like Nike and Hublot, generating millions in additional income. Despite still being in the early stages of his career, the French superstar has already built a financial empire that surpasses many retired legends.

9. Zlatan Ibrahimović – £130 million

Though retired from professional football, Zlatan Ibrahimović remains a global icon. His enduring media presence, high-profile sponsorships, and successful business ventures have helped him amass a substantial fortune. With investments spanning technology, real estate, and his own clothing brand, Zlatan has skillfully expanded his empire beyond the pitch.

At 43, his image as a powerful, unapologetically bold personality continues to resonate—and pay dividends.

8. Karim Benzema – £140 million

French striker Karim Benzema significantly increased his wealth following his transfer to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, where he signed one of the most lucrative contracts in football today. In addition to his salary, he benefits from lucrative endorsement deals, luxury real estate holdings, and other strategic investments that place him among the wealthiest players in the sport.

The former Real Madrid star’s long career at the top level has ensured lasting financial security and long-term stability.

7. Wayne Rooney – £170 million

Wayne Rooney, Manchester United’s all-time leading scorer, has built an impressive fortune over the years. During his playing career, he earned substantial sums through contracts and endorsements. Since transitioning into coaching, he has continued to generate significant income.

Beyond football, the Englishman has made savvy investments in real estate and secured commercial partnerships with several British companies. While he may no longer dominate the media spotlight, his financial standing remains strong and secure.

6. Dave Whelan – £170 million

Perhaps the least well-known name on this list for newer fans, Dave Whelan had a modest playing career with Blackburn Rovers during the 1950s and 1960s. However, it was in business where he truly made his mark.

Whelan went on to found JJB Sports, which grew into one of the most successful sports retail chains in the United Kingdom. While his football career laid the foundation, it was his post-retirement business success that significantly boosted his wealth and reputation.

His background as a professional footballer earns him a spot on this list, but it's his entrepreneurial achievements that truly define his legacy.

5. Neymar Jr. – £183 million

Despite frequent injuries and fluctuations in his career, Neymar Jr. remains one of the richest athletes in the world. His high-profile contract with Al-Hilal has secured his place among the highest-paid footballers globally. Off the pitch, lucrative sponsorship deals with brands like Puma, Red Bull, and Netflix—through his documentary—further boost his income.

Neymar’s extravagant lifestyle and carefully crafted personal brand continue to captivate fans and media alike, keeping him in the spotlight and generating millions in revenue.

4. David Beckham – £370 million

David Beckham needs no introduction. Since retiring from football, he has transformed his global image into a highly lucrative brand. As co-owner of Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Beckham has capitalized on commercial ventures, fashion endorsements, and a consistent presence in international media to build a diverse business empire.

Beyond football, the English icon has invested strategically in real estate and energy drinks, maintaining a profile as influential as it was during his playing days.

3. Lionel Messi – £470 million

Lionel Messi remains an active player, now entering the final phase of his illustrious career. His move to Inter Miami has boosted his earnings significantly, thanks to lucrative partnerships with Apple, Adidas, and a stake in MLS broadcasting rights. Meanwhile, his previous contracts with Barcelona and PSG were among the most lucrative in sports history.

Beyond the pitch, Messi has demonstrated savvy investment strategies, steadily growing his business ventures. His portfolio continues to expand, reflecting both his financial acumen and long-term vision for success beyond football.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – £680 million

Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese footballer, is not only considered one of the greatest players in history but also one of the most financially successful athletes worldwide. His lucrative contract with Al-Nassr, global endorsement deals with Nike, and diverse business ventures—including CR7 Hotels, clothing lines, and fragrances—have built an impressive fortune.

Even at 40 years old, Ronaldo remains active on the field and continues to generate significant income. Beyond his athletic prowess, he has established himself as one of the most influential figures in both sports and business, maintaining a remarkable presence and impact in both arenas.

1. Faiq Bolkiah – £14.67 billion

Although his name rarely graces sports headlines, Faiq Bolkiah stands unmatched in terms of wealth. As the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei and heir to one of the world’s richest families, his fortune far surpasses that of any other athlete. 

Bolkiah trained at prestigious football academies such as Chelsea and Leicester City, but his career never soared to the heights many expected. Instead, his immense wealth stems from the vast oil reserves, real estate holdings, and various business ventures tied to the Brunei monarchy, placing him in a league entirely his own.

Cover Credits - Sky Sports