Football is the most played and watched sport in the world and a multi-billion-dollar industry, and the players who excel at the highest level are paid handsomely.
According to Vanguard News, the richest footballers in the world earn millions of dollars per year, and some have even amassed fortunes in the billions of dollars.
As of 2024, the wealthiest footballers include:
1. Laiq Bolkiah: The Bruneian prince and footballer tops the list with a staggering net worth of $20 billion.
2. Lionel Messi: The Argentine forward, currently playing for Paris Saint-Germain, holds the second position with a net worth of $600 million.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo: The Portuguese forward, playing for Al Nassr, secures the third spot with a net worth of $500 million.
4. David Beckham: The retired English footballer and successful businessman is in the fourth position with a net worth of $450 million.
5. Dave Whelan: The former English footballer turned entrepreneur is in the fifth position with a net worth of $210 million.
6. Neymar Jr.: The Brazilian forward, playing for Paris Saint-Germain, has a net worth of $200 million, securing the sixth spot.
7. Zlatan Ibrahimovic: The Swedish striker, currently playing for AC Milan, is in the seventh position with a net worth of $190 million.
8. Kylian Mbappe: The French forward, playing for Paris Saint-Germain, holds the eighth position with a net worth of $180 million.
9. Wayne Rooney: The retired English striker, who played for D.C. United, is in the ninth position with a net worth of $170 million.
10. Ronaldo Luís Nazário: The retired Brazilian football legend, who played for Real Madrid, secures the tenth spot with a net worth of $160 million.
These figures encompass various income sources, including salaries, bonuses, endorsements, and business ventures, contributing to the overall wealth of these football icons.
