The Global Elite: Identifying the Wealthiest Footballers
Soccer Dominates as the World’s Favorite Sport. Its Unparalleled Fandom Boosts Income Opportunities for Elite Players, Leading to Skyrocketing Salaries. Some Stars Also Find Their Way to the Top Through Other Means.
Let’s start then, here is the 2022 Edition of the 10 Most Financially Flush Footballers on the Planet.
10. Alexandre Pato : $145 million
Brazilian Sensation Alexandre Pato: A Trailblazer on and off the Field
A skilled and dynamic footballer, Pato rose to prominence in Europe with powerhouse clubs like AC Milan and Chelsea. After stints in Brazil and Spain, he found financial success in China with Tianjin Tianhai. But his wealth-building endeavors extend far beyond the pitch.
Pato’s portfolio is diverse, encompassing real estate investments, stocks, and ventures in the hospitality and beauty industries. He has opened a string of successful restaurants in Brazil, and even launched his own brand of vodka and perfumes. With several lucrative endorsement deals with top cosmetic brands, Pato has cemented his place as a savvy businessman and one of the wealthiest footballers in the world.
9. Ronaldo Luís Nazário de Lima : $160 million
The Phenomenon That Is Ronaldo ‘R9’: A Trailblazer on the Field and Beyond
Renowned as one of the greatest forwards in history, Ronaldo’s lightning speed and unpredictable style made him a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. Despite facing a career dotted with injuries, he still managed to shine in the biggest competitions, winning multiple titles and accolades, including the 2002 World Cup with Brazil.
Beyond the pitch, Ronaldo’s enduring popularity has earned him numerous endorsement deals with top brands, including a long-standing contract with Nike. From EA Sports to Pirelli, Snickers, and Santander Bank, R9’s star power is in high demand. He also ventures into football ownership, taking on the role of majority shareholder and president at Real Valladolid, a La Liga club. With his unwavering determination and unmatched talent, Ronaldo is a true icon, both on and off the field.
8. Wayne Rooney : $160 million
The former England international made his mark with a 13-season stint at Manchester United, where he established himself as a physical and clinical striker. His impressive goal-scoring feats earned him numerous titles and records, including the Premier League and the Champions League. Today, he remains the all-time top scorer for both Manchester United and the England national team, as well as a top scorer in the history of the European Championships.
Rooney’s success extends beyond the pitch, as he has secured significant contracts with top clubs like Everton, Manchester, and DC United. He also boasts endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Nokia, Coca-Cola, and Ford, solidifying his position as one of the world’s wealthiest footballers. With his exceptional skills and enduring legacy, Rooney will always be remembered as a true football great
7. Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior : $200 million
Neymar, the prodigious attacker, has quickly made his mark among the wealthiest footballers in the world. With his exceptional vision, creativity, and versatility on the pitch, he has wowed fans and teammates alike. After a successful stint at Barcelona where he won multiple titles, he now represents Paris Saint-Germain, hoping to add even more trophies to his collection.
Neymar’s income is nothing short of staggering, with an estimated annual salary of 66 million euros that places him among the highest paid players in the world. He also has an impressive portfolio of endorsement deals with renowned brands like Nike, Gillette, Beats by Dre, and Red Bull, which collectively generate approximately 27 million per year.
6. Zlatan Ibrahimović : $200 million
Zlatan Ibrahimović, the Swedish striker, has established himself as one of the top footballers in Europe with his performances at clubs such as Juventus, Inter Milan, Barcelona, AC Milan, PSG, and Manchester United. Despite his imposing physique, he displays remarkable speed and precision when it comes to scoring goals. Throughout his career, Ibrahimović has won multiple titles and awards, but the Champions League has remained out of reach. Nevertheless, he remains one of PSG’s greatest players ever.
Ibrahimović’s wealth is largely derived from his substantial salaries at LA Galaxy and PSG. He has also developed a thriving business empire, starting with his ambassadorship for Nike and later launching his own clothing line in 2016 and a fragrance brand. He continues to be a sought-after figure for brands such as Nike and Volvo, who have signed him for advertising deals.
5. Dave Whelan : $210 million
Dave Whelan, a former football player who donned the jerseys of Blackburn Rovers and Crewe Alexandra, reached the pinnacle of the FA Cup with Blackburn in 1960. Unfortunately, he was injured during the final match and his playing career wasn’t as illustrious as some others. Despite this, Whelan’s riches were not derived from his footballing exploits.
He embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in the 1960s, founding a supermarket chain, which he eventually sold off in 1978. Subsequently, he acquired JBB Sports, a chain of sports equipment stores. However, it was in 1995 when he made a significant impact, acquiring the Wigan Football Club that was then in the third tier. Under his guidance, Whelan successfully propelled the club back to the Premier League and even led them to an FA Cup victory in 2013. Whelan holds the distinction of being the oldest person in the ranking of the richest footballers in the world.
4. David Beckham : $450 million
David Beckham is a football icon, renowned for his impressive career with Real Madrid and Manchester United. He was a versatile midfielder, known for his accurate long passes, powerful shots, and exceptional set-piece skills. In fact, Beckham is considered one of the best free-kick takers of all time and has a place in the top 10 of the best free-kick takers. He won numerous titles with Manchester United, including six Premier League titles and the prestigious Champions League trophy in 1999.
The former English star’s advertising contracts are extensive and have helped him amass a considerable fortune. He has lucrative deals with H&M, Breitling, Armani, Pepsi, and Adidas. The income from his brand management company, DB Ventures, also contributes to his wealth. Moreover, Beckham is involved in a project to launch an MLS club in Miami in 2020, alongside several other partners.
3. Lionel Messi : $620 million
Lionel Messi, a legendary player for FC Barcelona, is a remarkable athlete renowned for his lightning speed, incredible agility, and unparalleled understanding of the game. He has scored over 700 goals throughout his career, earning him a place among the greatest goal-scorers in history. With numerous accolades and accomplishments, including being the only player to win the Ballon d’Or 7 times, Messi has established himself as one of the all-time greats.
Messi’s yearly salary is a staggering 41 million dollars, making him one of the highest-earning footballers globally. He has also secured numerous advertising deals, including a partnership with Adidas and endorsements with other well-known brands such as Pepsi, Gillette, and Turkish Airlines. Besides his football and advertising endeavors, Messi has invested in real estate near his hometown of Rosario, Argentina. He currently ranks among the five richest footballers in the world.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo : $690 million
Cristiano Ronaldo is a legendary Portuguese footballer who has graced the fields of some of the biggest clubs in Europe including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest wingers of all time, thanks to his explosive speed, immense power, and unpredictable playing style. He has won numerous accolades including five Ballon d’Or awards and five Champions League titles. In addition to his club success, he was instrumental in Portugal’s victory at the Euro 2016 tournament.
Ronaldo’s wealth has been largely built through his lucrative contracts with some of the biggest clubs in Europe, including Real Madrid, Juventus, and Manchester United. He is also a highly sought after figure in the world of advertising, with numerous lucrative contracts with top brands such as Nike, Castrol, Heuer, EA Sports, Pokerstars, and Armani. Beyond his endorsement deals, Ronaldo has also created a thriving business empire around his personal brand, including hotels and gyms, further solidifying his status as one of the richest footballers in the world.
1. Faiq Bolkiah : $20 billion
Faiq Bolkiah, the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, tops the list of the richest footballers in the world. Despite being a relatively unknown player, having only played for Leicester City and currently playing for Maritimo Madeira in Portugal, Bolkiah’s wealth is estimated at a staggering 20 billion dollars. This vast wealth is largely attributed to his family connections, as Brunei, a small Asian nation, derives its wealth from its oil reserves. Bolkiah may not be a household name in the world of football, but his wealth surpasses that of many more recognizable football legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham.
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