Football Richlist: Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi makes Top10 richest footballers as Thai league player ranks as No1

Richard Yinka

Richard Yinka is a sport analyst, sport writer and a Manchester United fan

5 Minutes Read
March 16, 2024

Footballers undeniably rank among the richest and highest-paid athletes globally, with many commanding astonishing salaries.

In this article according to details from Pulse, we’ll delve into the realm of wealth and spotlight the top ten richest footballers in the world as of 2024.

1. In 2024, Faiq Bolkiah retains his title as the wealthiest footballer globally, with a staggering net worth of $20 billion. Born in Los Angeles, California, Bolkiah, aged 26, hails from a prestigious lineage as the son of Jefri Bolkiah, the Prince of Brunei.

Currently plying his trade as a midfielder for Thai League 1 club Ratchaburi, Bolkiah has previously showcased his talents in youth teams for Leicester City and Chelsea.

His uncle, Hassanal Bolkiah, serves as the Sultan of Brunei, renowned for its oil riches. As a dual citizen of Brunei and the United States, Bolkiah’s affluent background contributes significantly to his status as the wealthiest footballer in the world.

Full Name: Faiq Jefri Bolkiah

Age: 26 years old (as of 2024)

Club/Team: Ratchaburi

Net Worth: USD $20 billion

Faik bolkiah the world's richest footballer, Image credit - Marca — Faik bolkiah, Image credit – Marca

2. Lionel Messi (Net Worth) – $600 million

Lionel Messi is the 2nd richest footballer in the world in 2024

Lionel Messi Net Worth 2024

Full Name: Lionel Andres “Leo” Messi

Age: 37 years old (as of 2024)

Club/Team: Inter Miami CF

Net Worth: USD $600 million

Lionel Messi, hailed as the epitome of football greatness, is an Argentinian maestro whose talent transcends the sport.

Renowned for his unparalleled goal-scoring prowess and mesmerizing dribbling skills, Messi has etched his name in football folklore as one of the greatest players of the modern era.

At 37 years old, Messi continues to showcase his brilliance as the captain of Major League Soccer (MLS) franchise club Inter Miami, where he leads by example on the field.

Additionally, he carries the honor of captaining the Argentina national team, further solidifying his status as a footballing icon on both the domestic and international stages.

Image credit- Centre goals on x — Lionel Messi

3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Net Worth) – $500 million

Cristiano Ronaldo is the 3rd richest footballer in the world in 2024

Cristiano Ronaldo Net Worth 2024

Full Name: Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro

Age: 39 years old (as of 2024)

Club/Team: Al Nassr

Net Worth: USD $500 million

Cristiano Ronaldo, the esteemed Portuguese footballer, commands reverence as one of the richest and greatest players in the history of the sport

. At 39 years old, Ronaldo continues to dazzle as the captain of the Portugal national team while donning the jersey of Saudi Arabia league giants Al Nassr, following his monumental transfer to the Middle East in December 2022.

Renowned for his exceptional talent and unmatched work ethic, Ronaldo’s illustrious career boasts an impressive array of accolades, including five Ballon d’Or awards and four European Golden Shoes, marking him as the most decorated European player in these prestigious categories.

With a staggering collection of 32 trophies, including seven league titles and five UEFA Champions League triumphs, Ronaldo’s legacy transcends borders, solidifying his status as an icon of the beautiful game.