Top 20 richest footballers in the world. (First list)

 

1.  Faiq Bolkiah – $20 Billion

The richest footballer alive isn’t Messi or Ronaldo — it’s Faiq Bolkiah, nephew of the Sultan of Brunei. He plays in Thailand, but his massive wealth is inherited royalty money, not from football.

2. Lionel Messi – $600 Million

Still dazzling at Inter Miami, Messi earns from lifetime deals with Adidas, plus Pepsi, Hard Rock, and his own hotel chain. Football’s magic man is also a marketing powerhouse.

3. Cristiano Ronaldo – $500 Million

Al Nassr’s star forward has a lifetime Nike deal, the CR7 brand, and hotels, gyms, and a fragrance line. He also earns more than anyone on social media.

4. David Beckham – $450 Million

Retired, but far from done. Beckham co-owns Inter Miami, models for Tudor, promotes Haig Club whiskey, and is still one of the most bankable faces in sport.

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5. Dave Whelan – $210 Million

You might not know him as a player, but he founded JJB Sports after retiring. One of the few to turn football into a business empire outside endorsements.

6. Neymar  Jr. – $200 Million

Currently at Al Hilal, Neymar is paid royally. With Puma, Red Bull, and Diesel deals in place, his commercial game is just as flashy as his footwork.

7. Karim Benzema – $200 Million

The French striker now stars for Al-Ittihad. His Real Madrid legacy and endorsements (Adidas, Hyundai) helped him climb into the ultra-wealthy bracket.

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8. Zlatan Ibrahimović – $190 Million

Retired but never out of style. Zlatan made money with Nike, Volvo, Xbox, and even launched his own brand. Pure alpha energy… and big alpha cash.

9. Kylian Mbappé – $180 Million

Just joined Real Madrid. The French phenom is the face of Dior, Hublot, and EA Sports, with massive salaries and even bigger marketing appeal

10. Wayne Rooney – $170 Million

From Manchester United to MLS to management. Rooney made big money on the pitch and continues to cash in with coaching gigs and brand deals.