Rugby’s Richest: The Top 20 Highest Paid Stars of 2025
Rugby union’s biggest names are now commanding jaw-dropping salaries as the global market heats up. With French, Japanese, and English clubs offering premium deals, these 20 elite players are cashing in like never before — and we've ranked them from No. 20 to No. 1.
20. Emmanuel Meafou – £425,000
The powerful Toulouse lock has become a cornerstone in the French club’s pack. Meafou’s rise to prominence is matched by a salary that reflects his impact and value to one of Europe’s top teams.
19. Ardie Savea – £440,000
The New Zealand star split time between Moana Pasifika and Japan’s Kobelco Steelers, securing a lucrative short-term contract. Known for his relentless engine and dynamic play, Savea was one of the highest-paid forwards in Japan during his stint.
18. Richie Mo’unga – £450,000
After leaving the All Blacks, Mo’unga’s move to Toshiba Brave Lupus in Japan came with a sizeable paycheck. The fly-half’s elite game management and composure continue to make him a top-tier earner in League One.
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17. Damian de Allende – £460,000
South African centre de Allende brought his physical presence and steady form to the Panasonic Wild Knights. His switch to Japan provided a financial boost, rewarding his years of consistent international performances.
16. Will Skelton – £475,000
The towering Australian lock remains vital to La Rochelle’s success in the Top 14. Skelton’s dominant physicality earns him one of the highest salaries among forwards in France.
15. Matthieu Jalibert – £490,000
One of France’s brightest young talents, Jalibert continues to lead Bordeaux Bègles from fly-half. His importance to the club’s future is reflected in a salary close to half a million pounds.
14. Charles Ollivon – £500,000
As France’s national captain, Ollivon brings leadership and tenacity to Toulon. His commanding performances at flanker make him one of the highest-paid forwards in the French league.
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13. Kotaro Matsushima – £500,000
A fan favorite in Japan, Matsushima’s electric pace and versatility secure him a top spot in domestic earnings. Tokyo Sungoliath made sure to lock him in with a competitive deal.
12. Michael Hooper – £580,000
Wallabies legend Hooper extended his career in Japan with Toyota Verblitz. His wealth of international experience and tireless work ethic still command a hefty salary.
11. Gaël Fickou – £600,000
Racing 92’s ever-reliable centre remains a key part of the French powerhouse. Fickou’s defensive solidity and sharp attacking reads have earned him a top-end contract in the Top 14.
10. Handré Pollard – £610,000
Pollard remains one of the game's elite fly-halves, now steering the Leicester Tigers. Even after taking a pay cut to move to England, he still ranks comfortably in the top ten.
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9. Steven Luatua – £620,000
The versatile Samoan back-rower has been a constant force for the Bristol Bears. His strong performances in the Premiership have helped him command a higher salary than many test internationals.
8. Antoine Dupont – £700,000
Regarded by many as the world’s best scrum-half, Dupont is a symbol of Toulouse’s identity. The French giants pay handsomely to keep their star man rooted in the Top 14.
7. Siya Kolisi – £775,000
The Springboks captain continues to inspire both on and off the field at the Hollywoodbets Sharks. His £775,000 salary reflects both his star status and immense leadership.
6. Maro Itoje – £800,000
One of England’s most bankable stars, Itoje remains loyal to Saracens — for now. His domestic salary ranks among the top, but a future move abroad could see that number rise further.
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5. Dan Biggar – £800,000
As he nears retirement, Biggar continues to lead Toulon with experience and class. The Welsh veteran exits the game as his country’s highest-paid player.
4. Faf de Klerk – £900,000
The blond-haired dynamo thrives in Japan with the Yokohama Canon Eagles. His all-action style and international reputation keep him among rugby’s best-paid players.
3. Cheslin Kolbe – £930,000
Kolbe’s electric footwork and try-scoring ability have made him a box-office draw in Tokyo. As League One’s highest-paid player, he is living proof of Japan’s financial pull.
2. Finn Russell – £1 million
Scotland’s magician at No. 10 finds a new home with Bath Rugby, where his creativity is richly rewarded. His £1 million salary is testament to his world-class ability and flair.
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1. Owen Farrell – £1.2 million
Farrell's switch to Racing 92 in 2024 catapulted him to the top of the rugby rich list. The England captain’s leadership, tactical mind, and consistency make him the sport’s highest earner in 2025.
