Soccer is the most popular sport in the world, and its biggest stars are some of the most well-known and celebrated athletes. With millions of fans around the globe, it’s no surprise that the highest-paid soccer players are some of the richest people on the planet. But who takes home the biggest paychecks in the beautiful game? In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the top earners in soccer, from superstar strikers to elite defenders, and explore what makes them so valuable to their clubs and sponsors. Get ready to find out who’s the highest-paid soccer player in the world!
The Top 10 Highest-Paid Soccer Players in the World
#1 Lionel Messi
- Earnings: $120 million
- Endorsements: $30 million
- Teams: Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain
Lionel Messi, the Argentine soccer player, tops the list of the highest-paid soccer players in the world. With a staggering $120 million in earnings, he outpaces his fellow players. Of this amount, $75 million comes from salary and bonuses, while $45 million is from endorsements. Messi’s endorsement deals include partnerships with companies such as Adidas, Pepsi, and Gillette.
Despite his impressive earnings, Messi’s success on the field is what truly sets him apart. He has won numerous accolades, including ten La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey titles, and four Champions League titles. He has also been named the FIFA Ballon d’Or winner a record six times.
Messi’s skills on the field have earned him a devoted following of fans around the world. He has millions of followers on social media, and his matches are watched by millions of people. Off the field, he is known for his humility and kindness, which has only increased his popularity.
Overall, Lionel Messi’s success on and off the field has made him the highest-paid soccer player in the world. His earnings and endorsement deals are a testament to his talent and popularity, and he continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of soccer.
#2 Cristiano Ronaldo
- Earnings: $110 million
- Salary: $60 million
- Endorsements: $50 million
- Endorsements:
- Brands: Nike, Tag Heuer, Herbalife
- Sponsorship Deals: CR7 brand, hotel chain, sporting goods company
- Teams:
- Manchester United (2003-2009)
- Real Madrid (2009-2018)
- Juventus (2018-present)
Cristiano Ronaldo, often referred to as CR7, is a Portuguese professional soccer player who currently plays as a forward for Italian club Juventus and the Portugal national team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time, known for his incredible speed, agility, and scoring ability.
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has amassed an impressive array of accolades, including five Ballon d’Or awards, which recognizes him as the best player in the world. He has also won numerous league titles, domestic cups, and international trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Euro.
Ronaldo’s success on the field has translated into significant earnings off the field as well. According to Forbes, he is the second-highest-paid soccer player in the world, with total earnings of $110 million in 2021. This includes a salary of $60 million from his teams and endorsement deals worth $50 million.
Ronaldo’s endorsement deals are particularly noteworthy, as he has partnerships with some of the world’s most prominent brands. He has a long-term partnership with Nike, which has included the release of his own line of cleats and other soccer gear. He also has deals with Tag Heuer, a luxury watch brand, and Herbalife, a nutrition company.
In addition to his official sponsorship deals, Ronaldo also has his own brand, CR7, which includes a line of hotels, a sporting goods company, and a foundation that supports underprivileged children. All of these ventures contribute to his impressive earnings, making him one of the richest athletes in the world.
On the field, Ronaldo has played for several top teams, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He has also played for the Portugal national team since 2003, and has represented the team in several major international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship.
Overall, Cristiano Ronaldo is a dominant force in the world of soccer, known for his exceptional skills and achievements on the field. His impressive earnings and endorsement deals have made him a global sports icon, and he continues to inspire millions of fans around the world.
#3 Neymar
Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, commonly known as Neymar, is a Brazilian professional soccer player who currently plays as a forward for Paris Saint-Germain and the Brazil national team. Born on February 27, 1992, in São Paulo, Brazil, Neymar began his career at a young age and quickly rose to fame for his exceptional skills and ability on the field.
With an estimated net worth of $200 million, Neymar is one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world. In 2019, he earned a staggering $95 million, making him the third highest-paid soccer player in the world, according to Forbes. Of that amount, $20 million came from endorsement deals with various brands and companies.
Neymar’s success on the field has translated into a lucrative career off the field as well. He has endorsement deals with some of the biggest brands in the world, including Nike, Red Bull, and Gillette. In addition, he has also been involved in several philanthropic endeavors, including the establishment of his own charity foundation, the Instituto Neymar Jr, which focuses on providing education and sports opportunities for children in Brazil.
Despite his success, Neymar has faced criticism for his on-field antics, including diving and exaggerating injuries. However, his fans continue to love him for his skill and personality, making him one of the most popular soccer players in the world.
#4 Robert Lewandowski
- Earnings: $45 million
- Salary: $25 million
- Endorsements: $20 million
- Endorsements: $5 million
- Brands: Adidas, Lufthansa, Opel
- Teams: Bayern Munich
- Championships: Bundesliga (5), DFB-Pokal (4), UEFA Champions League (1)
Robert Lewandowski, a Polish professional footballer, is ranked fourth among the highest-paid soccer players in the world, with an estimated earning of $45 million in 2021. Of this amount, $25 million came from his salary, while he earned an additional $20 million from endorsements.
Lewandowski has been endorsed by several reputable brands, including Adidas, Lufthansa, and Opel. He has been instrumental in these brands’ advertising campaigns, reaching millions of fans across the globe.
Lewandowski plays for Bayern Munich, one of the most successful clubs in the world. During his time at the club, he has won numerous championships, including five Bundesliga titles, four DFB-Pokal titles, and one UEFA Champions League title. His impressive performances on the field have made him a fan favorite, and he is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world.
#5 Mohamed Salah
- Earnings: $40 million
- Endorsements: $3 million
- Teams: Liverpool
Mohamed Salah, an Egyptian professional footballer, ranks fifth among the highest-paid soccer players in the world. With an estimated $40 million in earnings, he is one of the most valuable players in the sport. Salah’s primary source of income comes from his wages, which are reportedly around $20 million per year. He also earns a significant amount from endorsement deals, worth approximately $3 million annually.
Salah’s impressive performance on the field has made him a popular figure among fans and sponsors alike. His high-profile endorsement deals include partnerships with global brands such as Adidas, Samsung, and Gillette. These deals not only contribute to his income but also help him maintain a strong presence in the sporting world.
Salah’s success can be attributed to his exceptional skills and dedication to the game. He began his career with a local club in Egypt before moving to Europe to play for Swiss side Basel. He later signed for Liverpool, where he has since become a fan favorite and one of the most influential players in the team.
Despite his busy schedule, Salah remains committed to giving back to the community. He has been involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting the construction of a hospital in his hometown and donating to relief efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Salah’s remarkable achievements both on and off the field have earned him a place among the highest-paid soccer players in the world. As he continues to excel in his career, it is likely that his earnings and endorsement deals will continue to grow, solidifying his position as one of the top players in the sport.
#6 Kylian Mbappe
- Earnings: $35 million
- Endorsements: $7 million
- Teams: Paris Saint-Germain
Kylian Mbappe, a French professional footballer, is currently one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world. With an estimated earning of $35 million, he ranks at number six on the list of top earners in the game. His earnings primarily come from his salary and winnings from various competitions, including the UEFA Champions League and the French Ligue 1.
In addition to his on-field performances, Mbappe has also been able to secure several endorsement deals with major brands, which contribute to his overall earnings. These deals, worth an estimated $7 million, include partnerships with companies such as Nike, EA Sports, and Pepsi.
Mbappe currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain, one of the richest and most successful soccer clubs in the world. The team’s impressive financial backing allows them to attract top talent from around the globe, and Mbappe is a prime example of this.
Despite his young age, Mbappe has already established himself as one of the most exciting and dynamic players in the world. His speed, agility, and technical ability make him a nightmare for defenders, and his goalscoring record speaks for itself. With his impressive skills and marketability, it’s no surprise that Mbappe is one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world.
#7 Lionel Pirez
- Earnings: $30 million
- Endorsements: $4 million
- Teams: Barcelona
Lionel Pirez, a prolific soccer player from Argentina, ranks seventh on the list of the highest-paid soccer players in the world. With an impressive annual salary of $30 million, Pirez has solidified his position as one of the top-earning players in the game. However, it is not just his on-field performance that contributes to his earnings. Pirez has also secured several lucrative endorsement deals, adding an additional $4 million to his income.
One of the key factors contributing to Pirez’s success is his affiliation with the prestigious Spanish club, Barcelona. The team’s immense popularity and financial power have enabled Pirez to command a high salary and attract sponsorship deals. As a skilled forward, Pirez has consistently displayed his exceptional talent on the field, which has earned him a devoted fan base and admiration from both opponents and teammates alike.
In addition to his on-field achievements, Pirez has also been praised for his humility and down-to-earth personality. This has helped him build strong relationships with fans and sponsors, further contributing to his overall earnings. Overall, Lionel Pirez’s success as a soccer player is a testament to his skill, dedication, and the support of his team and fans.
#8 Kevin De Bruyne
- Earnings: $25 million
- Salary from Manchester City: $18 million
- Endorsement deals: $7 million
- Endorsements: $2 million
- Deals with brands such as Nike, EA Sports, and Gillette
- Teams: Manchester City
- Signed with the English Premier League team in 2015 for a reported fee of $80 million
- Has helped lead the team to multiple titles, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League
- Recently signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2025
Overall, Kevin De Bruyne is one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world, earning a total of $25 million per year. His salary from Manchester City makes up the majority of his earnings, while his endorsement deals add an additional $7 million to his income. Some of his biggest endorsement deals include partnerships with Nike, EA Sports, and Gillette. De Bruyne has been a key player for Manchester City since joining the team in 2015, and has helped lead the team to multiple titles. In addition to his on-field success, he has also recently signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2025.
#9 Antoine Griezmann
Antoine Griezmann is a French professional soccer player who currently plays as a forward for Barcelona and the French national team. He was born on March 21, 1991, in Macon, France. Griezmann began his career with the French club, Montpellier, before moving to Real Sociedad in 2013. In 2014, he signed with Atletico Madrid, where he played for five seasons before joining Barcelona in 2019.
Griezmann has had a successful career, winning numerous awards and accolades. He was named the Best Player in La Liga in 2016 and 2018, and he was also named the French Player of the Year in 2016. In addition, he has won the UEFA Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup with both Atletico Madrid and Chelsea.
In terms of earnings, Griezmann is one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world. He earns an estimated $24 million per year, with $16 million coming from his salary and $3 million from endorsements. Some of his biggest endorsement deals include partnerships with Nike, EA Sports, and Puma.
Griezmann has also been a key player for the French national team, helping them reach the final of the 2020 UEFA European Championship. He has also been named to the French national team for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Overall, Griezmann is a talented and successful soccer player who has achieved a great deal in his career. With his impressive skills and winning attitude, he is sure to continue making waves in the soccer world for years to come.
#10 Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portuguese professional footballer, ranks 10th among the highest-paid soccer players in the world, with total earnings of $23 million. He currently plays as a forward for Manchester United, having previously played for Real Madrid and Juventus.
Earnings
Ronaldo’s annual salary is $20 million, primarily earned through his wages from his various teams. Additionally, he earns approximately $3 million from endorsement deals with several renowned brands, including Nike, Herbalife, and EA Sports.
Teams
Throughout his career, Ronaldo has played for some of the most prestigious clubs in the world, including Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus. He began his professional career with Sporting CP before moving to Manchester United in 2003, where he gained widespread recognition and acclaim. In 2009, he joined Real Madrid, where he won numerous accolades and titles, including four Champions League titles. In 2018, he signed with Juventus, where he currently plays.
Endorsements
Ronaldo’s success on the field has translated into a lucrative endorsement deal portfolio. He has endorsement deals with several global brands, including sportswear giant Nike, health and wellness company Herbalife, and video game developer EA Sports. He has also been featured in numerous commercials and advertising campaigns, further contributing to his earnings.
In conclusion, Cristiano Ronaldo’s impressive skills on the field, coupled with his extensive endorsement deals and high salary, make him one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world.
How They Make Their Money
Earnings from Teams
When it comes to the highest-paid soccer players in the world, the majority of their income comes from their teams. This can include salaries, bonuses, and transfer fees. Here’s a closer look at each of these sources of income:
Salaries
The salary of a soccer player is the amount of money they receive from their team on a regular basis. This can vary widely depending on the player’s skills, experience, and the team’s budget. In general, the top players in the world can earn millions of dollars per year in salary alone. For example, Cristiano Ronaldo is reported to earn over $40 million per year in salary from his team, Real Madrid.
Bonuses
In addition to their regular salary, many soccer players also earn bonuses for their performance on the field. These bonuses can be based on a variety of factors, such as the number of goals scored, assists, or wins. Some players even have bonuses written into their contracts for winning individual awards or being named to the team of the year.
Transfer Fees
When a soccer player is transferred to a new team, the receiving team often has to pay a transfer fee to the player’s previous team. These fees can be significant, especially for top players. For example, when Neymar was transferred from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, the transfer fee was reported to be over $200 million. The player also received a significant salary increase, making him one of the highest-paid soccer players in the world.
Earnings from Endorsements
In addition to their salaries and winnings, many top soccer players also earn significant income from endorsements. These endorsements can come in the form of sponsorships, advertising deals, and personal brand partnerships.
Sponsorships
One way that soccer players can earn money from endorsements is through sponsorships. These sponsorships can come from a variety of sources, including sports brands, technology companies, and even automobile manufacturers. For example, Cristiano Ronaldo has a sponsorship deal with Nike, while Lionel Messi has a sponsorship deal with Adidas.
Advertising Deals
Another way that soccer players can earn money from endorsements is through advertising deals. These deals can come in the form of television commercials, print ads, and social media campaigns. In some cases, players may even be featured in the advertisements themselves. For example, David Beckham has been the face of numerous advertising campaigns for brands such as Adidas and H&M.
Personal Brand Partnerships
Finally, soccer players can also earn money from endorsements through personal brand partnerships. These partnerships can come in the form of clothing lines, fragrances, and even charitable foundations. For example, David Beckham has a successful clothing line and has also launched a successful charitable foundation.
Overall, endorsements can be a significant source of income for top soccer players, and can often account for a significant portion of their total earnings.
Other Sources of Income
Apart from salaries and endorsements, soccer players can earn income through various other sources. These may include investments, real estate, and philanthropy. In some cases, players may leverage their success to build businesses or create brands that generate significant revenue. Here’s a closer look at these alternative sources of income:
Investments
Some soccer players choose to invest their earnings in various assets, such as stocks, bonds, or properties. By making wise investment decisions, they can secure their financial future and potentially generate additional income streams. Many professional athletes work with financial advisors to guide them in making informed investment choices.
Real Estate
Soccer players often invest in real estate as a way to diversify their portfolios and generate passive income. Some may purchase residential properties to rent out, while others may acquire commercial or industrial spaces for investment purposes. Real estate investments can be lucrative, especially if the player is strategic in their property selections and management.
Philanthropy
Several soccer players use their influence and wealth to support charitable causes. By establishing foundations or partnering with non-profit organizations, they can make a positive impact on society and contribute to worthy causes. Philanthropic efforts can help players give back to their communities and leave a lasting legacy beyond their athletic careers.
Business Ventures
Some players choose to venture into entrepreneurship, leveraging their celebrity status and resources to start their own businesses. This can include everything from clothing lines and sports equipment to restaurants and entertainment ventures. Successful businesses can provide additional income streams and further enhance a player’s financial standing.
Overall, these alternative sources of income can significantly contribute to a soccer player’s earnings and financial stability. By exploring opportunities beyond their primary profession, players can ensure a more secure and prosperous future.
Factors That Influence Soccer Player Earnings
Marketability
The earning potential of a soccer player is not solely determined by their performance on the field. A significant factor that contributes to a player’s income is their marketability. Marketability is a measure of a player’s ability to attract sponsors, endorsement deals, and generate revenue through various channels. Here are some of the key factors that influence a soccer player’s marketability:
- Popularity: A player’s popularity is a crucial determinant of their marketability. Players who have a large following, both in their home country and internationally, are more likely to attract endorsement deals and sponsorships.
- Social media following: In today’s digital age, social media has become an essential platform for players to connect with their fans and build their brand. Players with a significant social media following are more attractive to sponsors and can command higher endorsement fees.
- Endorsement deals: Endorsement deals are a significant source of income for many soccer players. Players who have established themselves as marketable and attractive personalities can secure lucrative endorsement deals with companies looking to leverage their popularity.
- Global appeal: Players who have a global appeal, such as those who have played for top European clubs or represented their national team in international competitions, are more marketable. This is because they have a broader fan base and can reach a larger audience through their endorsements and sponsorships.
- Personal brand: A player’s personal brand is a critical determinant of their marketability. Players who have a distinct personality and are able to connect with their fans on a personal level are more likely to attract endorsement deals and sponsorships.
In conclusion, marketability plays a crucial role in determining a soccer player’s earning potential. Players who are able to leverage their popularity, social media following, endorsement deals, global appeal, and personal brand can command higher salaries and secure lucrative sponsorship deals.
Performance
Performance on the field is one of the most significant factors that influence a soccer player’s earnings. On-field success, awards, and accolades can have a significant impact on a player’s salary and endorsement deals. Some of the key performance indicators that affect a player’s earnings include:
- Goals scored: Players who score more goals are likely to attract more attention from clubs and sponsors, which can lead to higher salaries and endorsement deals.
- Assists: Players who provide assists are also valuable to teams, and their contributions can lead to higher earnings.
- Awards and accolades: Players who win individual awards, such as the Ballon d’Or or the FIFA Best Player Award, can see a significant increase in their earnings.
- Team success: Players on successful teams, such as those that win league titles or domestic cups, are more likely to attract attention from clubs and sponsors, which can lead to higher earnings.
- National team success: Players who perform well for their national teams, such as winning a World Cup or a continental championship, can see a significant increase in their earnings.
Overall, performance on the field is a critical factor that can impact a soccer player’s earnings. Players who consistently perform at a high level are more likely to attract attention from clubs and sponsors, which can lead to higher salaries and endorsement deals.
Contract Negotiations
Salary
The salary of a soccer player is a major factor in their earnings. The salary can vary greatly depending on the player’s skill level, performance, and marketability. High-profile players such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi can earn tens of millions of dollars per year in salary alone. However, the salary of a player can also be influenced by their contract negotiations.
In addition to salary, bonuses can also be a significant source of income for soccer players. Bonuses can be based on various factors such as the number of goals scored, the number of appearances made, or the team’s performance in tournaments. Some players have even negotiated bonuses based on individual achievements such as being named the best player in a tournament.
Length of Contract
The length of a contract can also impact a player’s earnings. A longer contract can provide stability and security for the player, but it can also limit their earning potential if they are unable to negotiate higher wages in subsequent contracts. On the other hand, a shorter contract can provide the player with the opportunity to negotiate higher wages more frequently, but it can also leave them vulnerable to injury or a decline in performance.
Overall, contract negotiations play a crucial role in determining a soccer player’s earnings. A player’s salary, bonuses, and length of contract can all be negotiated, and these negotiations can have a significant impact on their earning potential.
Brand Value
In the world of soccer, brand value plays a significant role in determining a player’s earnings. Brand value refers to the worth of a player’s reputation, fan base, and loyalty. The value of a player’s brand is often determined by factors such as their on-field performance, media exposure, and social media presence.
One of the main drivers of brand value is a player’s on-field performance. A player who consistently performs well for their team and helps them win titles will have a higher brand value compared to a player who struggles to make an impact. For example, Cristiano Ronaldo’s brand value is significantly higher than other players due to his consistent performance for both club and country, as well as his numerous individual awards and records.
Another important factor in determining a player’s brand value is their media exposure. Players who are regularly featured in the media, whether it be through interviews, news articles, or social media posts, will have a higher brand value compared to those who are not. Media exposure helps to increase a player’s visibility and reach, making them more marketable and valuable to sponsors and endorsement deals.
Social media presence is also a key component of a player’s brand value. Players who have a strong social media following, particularly on platforms such as Instagram and Twitter, will have a higher brand value compared to those who do not. Social media allows players to connect with their fans and build a personal brand, which can lead to more endorsement deals and higher earnings.
In conclusion, brand value is a crucial factor in determining a soccer player’s earnings. On-field performance, media exposure, and social media presence all play a role in determining a player’s brand value, which can have a significant impact on their earnings potential.
FAQs
1. Who is the highest-paid soccer player in the world?
Answer:
According to recent reports, the highest-paid soccer player in the world is Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese superstar is known for his impressive skills on the field and his numerous accolades, including five Ballon d’Or awards. Ronaldo currently plays for Juventus in Italy and is considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time.
2. How much does Cristiano Ronaldo earn in a year?
Cristiano Ronaldo is estimated to earn around $105 million per year, making him the highest-paid soccer player in the world. This includes his salary from his club team, Juventus, as well as endorsement deals and other income sources. Ronaldo’s earnings are largely due to his success on the field and his large social media following, which allows him to attract lucrative sponsorship deals.
3. Are there any other soccer players who are among the highest-paid athletes in the world?
Yes, there are several other soccer players who are among the highest-paid athletes in the world. Lionel Messi, another Argentine superstar, is estimated to earn around $75 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid athletes in any sport. Other high-earning soccer players include Neymar, Robert Lewandowski, and Kylian Mbappe. These players have all achieved great success on the field and have attracted large endorsement deals, making them some of the wealthiest athletes in the world.
4. How do soccer players earn their income?
Soccer players earn their income through a combination of salaries from their club teams, sponsorship deals, and other income sources such as endorsements and advertising. The highest-paid soccer players are typically those who have achieved the most success on the field and have a large following, as this allows them to attract lucrative sponsorship deals. In addition, soccer players may also earn income through investments and other business ventures.
