The 20 Highest-Paid Rugby Players in the World – Ranked from Lowest to Highest
Rugby salaries have been rising in recent years, with top players securing lucrative contracts across leagues in Europe, Japan, and Australia. While some of the highest-paid athletes in the sport compete in the elite European rugby union competitions, others have found financial success in the National Rugby League (NRL) or Japan’s rapidly growing league system.
We have taken a closer look at the biggest earners in rugby and ranked the top 20 highest-paid players in the world, from lowest to highest.
20. Handré Pollard – £481,900 per year
Handré Pollard, one of the world’s premier fly-halves, currently plays for Leicester Tigers in England’s Premiership Rugby. A World Cup-winning playmaker for South Africa, Pollard’s precise kicking and tactical acumen make him a key asset for both club and country.
19. Tom Trbojevic – £488,010 per year
A dominant fullback in the National Rugby League (NRL), Tom Trbojevic plays for the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles. Known for his explosive speed and ability to break through defensive lines, Trbojevic remains one of Australia’s most exciting rugby league talents.
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18. James Tedesco – £488,010 per year
As captain of the Sydney Roosters and a crucial figure in the NRL, fullback James Tedesco combines blistering acceleration with exceptional playmaking skills. He has been a consistent performer at both club and international level for Australia.
17. Nicholas Hynes – £488,010 per year
Nicholas Hynes, a five-eighth for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the NRL, has established himself as one of the league’s top playmakers. His vision and ability to control the pace of the game have made him an integral part of his team’s success.
16. Steven Luatua – £489,800 per year
New Zealand-born Steven Luatua is a hard-hitting flanker for the Bristol Bears in Premiership Rugby. Formerly a key player for the Blues in Super Rugby, his versatility and leadership continue to make him a standout performer in England.
15. Payne Haas – £493,750 per year
A dominant prop in the NRL, Payne Haas plays for the Brisbane Broncos. His sheer physicality and work rate have earned him widespread recognition, making him one of the most valuable forwards in the competition.
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14. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui – £493,750 per year
Another powerhouse forward, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui represents the Gold Coast Titans in the NRL. His aggressive ball-carrying and defensive toughness make him one of the best young props in the league.
13. Daly Cherry-Evans – £493,750 per year
A veteran halfback and captain of the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Daly Cherry-Evans is known for his leadership and exceptional kicking game. He has been a cornerstone of the NRL for over a decade.
12. Mitchell Moses – £496,120 per year
Mitchell Moses, a key playmaker for the Parramatta Eels in the NRL, is one of the league’s premier halfbacks. His precise kicking and strategic decision-making have helped lead his team to multiple finals appearances.
11. Cameron Munster – £498,490 per year
Cameron Munster is a five-eighth for the Melbourne Storm in the NRL. A creative and unpredictable playmaker, Munster is known for his ability to exploit defensive gaps and deliver clutch performances.
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10. Nathan Cleary – £498,490 per year
Nathan Cleary, halfback for the Penrith Panthers, is regarded as one of the best tactical minds in the NRL. His pinpoint kicking, game management, and leadership have been instrumental in his team’s recent dominance.
9. Kalyn Ponga – £503,230 per year
Kalyn Ponga, the star fullback for the Newcastle Knights, is one of the most electrifying players in the NRL. His dazzling footwork and attacking brilliance make him a constant threat in open play.
8. Antoine Dupont – £553,000 per year
Widely regarded as the best scrum-half in the world, Antoine Dupont captains Toulouse in France’s Top 14. His lightning-quick decision-making and incredible athleticism have set a new standard for the position.
7. Maro Itoje – £632,000 per year
England international Maro Itoje is a world-class lock for Saracens in the Premiership. Known for his relentless work rate and dominant line-out ability, Itoje is a leader on the field and a cornerstone of England’s pack.
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6. Dan Biggar – £632,000 per year
Dan Biggar, a veteran fly-half, plays for Toulon in France’s Top 14. A calm and experienced playmaker, Biggar’s kicking accuracy and game management make him one of the most reliable 10s in world rugby.
5. Siya Kolisi – £651,750 per year
South Africa’s inspirational World Cup-winning captain, Siya Kolisi, now plays as a flanker for Racing 92 in France. His leadership and physicality make him one of the most respected players in the sport.
4. Faf de Klerk – £711,000 per year
A dynamic scrum-half, Faf de Klerk currently plays for Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan. Known for his aggressive playing style and quick delivery, de Klerk has been a crucial figure for South Africa’s success.
3. Cheslin Kolbe – £737,070 per year
One of the most electrifying wingers in the game, Cheslin Kolbe now plays for Suntory Sungoliath in Japan. His blistering pace, elusive footwork, and defensive tenacity have made him a global star.
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2. Finn Russell – £790,000 per year
Finn Russell, a Scottish fly-half, brings his creative attacking style to Bath in the Premiership. Known for his unpredictable passing and tactical brilliance, Russell is among the best playmakers in the world.
1. Owen Farrell – £791,580 per year
Topping the list is England captain Owen Farrell, who now plays for Racing 92 in France’s Top 14. A world-class fly-half, Farrell’s leadership, kicking precision, and defensive resilience make him the highest-paid rugby player in 2025.
