The 20 Richest Footballers in the World

May 4, 2025 Marcus Dam

Here is the list of the 20 richest footballers in the world as of 2025. It’s not just about massive salaries and sponsorships — this ranking shows how stars turn goals into millions through business ventures, investments, and personal brands.

20. Frank Lampard – $90 million

The Chelsea legend earned over $100 million during his playing career. With a solid coaching salary and deals with Adidas, Pepsi, and Samsung, Lampard remains in the spotlight. He also invests in real estate, media, and the AI firm CogX, and created the children’s book universe Frankie’s Magic Football.

19. Samuel Eto’o – $95 million

Eto’o revolutionized football salaries with his record deal at Anzhi Makhachkala. His portfolio includes telecoms (Set Mobile) and football academies in Africa. He owns luxury cars and once donated a home to a former homeless national teammate.

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18. Antoine Griezmann – $95 million

Griezmann’s high-earning move to Barcelona and investments in esports, mental health platforms, and Madrid real estate have built a strong financial foundation. He also has long-standing partnerships with Puma and Beats.

17. Eden Hazard – $100 million

Despite an injury-ridden time at Real Madrid, Hazard earned up to £400,000 per week. He invests in American soccer via San Diego 1904 FC and the lifestyle brand Yoko7.

16. Mesut Özil – $120 million

The former Arsenal star profited greatly from his Adidas deal and later built the M10 brand focusing on apparel and esports. He has ventured into VC investing and supports social projects through his foundation.

15. Andrés Iniesta – $120 million

The Spaniard made headlines when he chose Japan over the USA or Middle East. Earning $30 million a year at Vissel Kobe and investing in wine, sneakers, and tech has made his finances rock solid.

14. Thierry Henry – $130 million

After retiring, Henry took on roles as a pundit and assistant coach. He’s profited from deals with Nike and Puma and has invested in tech and real estate in both London and New York.

13. Paul Pogba – $125 million

Despite a drop in income following a doping scandal, Pogba still earns well through Adidas and Beats. His property investments are low-profile but significant.

12. Gareth Bale – $145 million

Bale made the most of his Real Madrid years, also cashing in through Adidas and EA Sports. After retirement, he’s moved into media as a Champions League pundit.

11. Ronaldo Nazário – $160 million

Ronaldo de Nazario — Warehouse of Images / Shutterstock.com

The Brazilian legend has built a business empire with club ownership, sports schools, and companies like R9 TV and Galáticos Capital. He also cashed in big by selling shares in Cruzeiro.

10. Kylian Mbappé – $180 million

The youngest on the list has already passed $300 million in career earnings. With lucrative endorsements and 80% control of his image rights at Real Madrid, he’s tipped to become a billionaire.

9. Zlatan Ibrahimović – $190 million

Zlatan Ibrahimovic — Photo: ph.FAB / Shutterstock.com

Zlatan turned himself into a brand. From trademarking his name and iconic ads with Volvo to real estate investments and a role at AC Milan via RedBird Capital.

8. Karim Benzema – $200 million

The French striker earns $100 million a year in Saudi Arabia. A long Real Madrid career and a few strong sponsorships have secured his wealth.

7. Wayne Rooney – $216 million

Rooney was a top earner through Nike and Coca-Cola during his playing days. Now a coach and pundit, his real estate investments — including a mansion in Cheshire — have cemented his fortune.

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6. Dave Whelan – $230 million

The former Wigan owner made his money from JJB Sports. He sold the company for £190 million and became an iconic figure in English football.

5. Neymar – $250 million

Neymar earned €100 million annually in Saudi Arabia and has profited massively through endorsements and his company NR Sports. His private jet, luxury lifestyle, and appearances with global stars make him a worldwide icon.

4. David Beckham – $450 million

Beckham is a branding master. Through DB Ventures, Inter Miami, and selling 55% to Authentic Brands Group, he’s climbed the financial ladder. Luxury real estate and iconic sponsorships keep him globally relevant.

3. Lionel Messi – $650 million

Messi earns over $100 million a year in the USA, and his Apple TV deal is groundbreaking. Adidas, hotels, beverages, and his own clothing line fuel his commercial empire.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo – $800 million

CR7 earns $200 million annually in Saudi Arabia and has built a franchise-like brand with hotels, gyms, hair clinics, and fashion. With over $1 billion in total earnings, he’s the most industrialized athlete brand in sports.

1. Faiq Bolkiah – $20 billion

Faiq Bolkiah plays in Thailand but inherited his wealth. As the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, he owns not just football boots but a share of the country’s $28 billion fortune. The richest footballer ever — without a single Champions League appearance.