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In what is being called a landmark season for global football finances, Forbes has revealed its annual list of the highest-paid footballers in the world — and the numbers are staggering. Combined, the top-earning players in the 2024–25 season amassed more than $1 billion AUD, setting a new record for total player earnings in a single season.
The top three athletes alone — Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Karim Benzema — pulled in over half that figure, driven largely by mammoth salaries in the Saudi Pro League and blockbuster global endorsement deals.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo — $425.6 million AUD
Club: Al Nassr (Saudi Arabia)
On-field: $348.2M | Off-field: $77.4M
Ronaldo reclaims his spot at the summit, cementing himself as not only the world’s highest-paid footballer but also the highest-paid athlete globally. With unmatched popularity on and off the pitch, the 39-year-old continues to dominate financially through endorsements, business ventures, and even streaming. With his contract at Al Nassr nearing its conclusion, speculation is rife about a return to Europe or even a move to Portugal to chase his 1,000-goal dream.
2. Lionel Messi — $209 million AUD
Club: Inter Miami (USA)
On-field: $93M | Off-field: $116M
Messi’s stateside venture with Inter Miami, backed by David Beckham, has proven a massive commercial success. His deals with Adidas, Apple TV, Konami, and his own production house 525 Rosario, help make him the most endorsed athlete in football today. As he enters the final year of his contract, Messi continues to expand his influence across sport, media, and investment.
3. Karim Benzema — $161 million AUD
Club: Al-Ittihad (Saudi Arabia)
On-field: $155M | Off-field: $6M
Benzema was one of the first elite players to jump to the Saudi Pro League. Despite mixed performances, his contract remains one of the richest ever signed. As the end of that mega-deal approaches, fans wonder whether he’ll return to Europe or see out his career in the Middle East.
4. Kylian Mbappé — $139.2 million AUD
Club: Real Madrid (Spain)
On-field: $108.3M | Off-field: $30.9M
Mbappé’s blockbuster transfer to Real Madrid has already paid dividends — both on the pitch and in his wallet. At just 25, he is the face of a young and dominant Madrid side. He famously turned down a record $1B Saudi offer in favor of legacy and trophies. His endorsements continue to rise with his growing global appeal.
5. Neymar — $117.6 million AUD
Club: Santos FC (Brazil)
On-field: $71.2M | Off-field: $46.4M
After an underwhelming stint at Al Hilal that ended in injury, Neymar made a surprise return to Brazil’s Santos FC. Despite limited game time, his off-field brand power remains enormous. His Saudi contract was rumoured to include over-the-top perks, including private jets and luxury housing for his entourage.
6. Erling Haaland — $95.9 million AUD
Club: Manchester City (England)
On-field: $74.3M | Off-field: $21.6M
The Norwegian goal machine continues to rewrite the record books. Haaland’s performance at City — including Premier League and Champions League triumphs — has translated into major endorsement growth, with the 24-year-old expected to climb even higher on future earnings lists.
7. Vinícius Júnior — $85.1 million AUD
Club: Real Madrid (Spain)
On-field: $61.9M | Off-field: $23.2M
At just 24, Vinícius Júnior is already a global icon, especially in South America. His speed, flair, and charisma on and off the field are helping Real Madrid transition into its next golden era.
8. Mohamed Salah — $82 million AUD
Club: Liverpool FC (England)
On-field: $54.1M | Off-field: $27.9M
Salah remains Liverpool’s crown jewel. With a phenomenal 2024–25 season, he’s also become a marketing juggernaut, representing brands across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
9. Sadio Mané — $80.5 million AUD
Club: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia)
On-field: $74.3M | Off-field: $6.2M
Mané’s big-money Saudi move raised eyebrows — until fans learned he was using much of his salary to fund charitable projects in Senegal. He continues to balance elite football with admirable philanthropy.
10. Kevin De Bruyne — $60.3 million AUD
Club: Manchester City (England)
On-field: $54.2M | Off-field: $6.1M
The Belgian maestro is reportedly mulling a move to the MLS as he enters the twilight of his career. Despite injuries, his loyalty to City and consistent performance keep him among the sport’s highest earners.
Honourable Mention: Faiq Bolkiah
Club: Chonburi FC (Thailand)
Though not featured on Forbes’ earnings list, Faiq Bolkiah is often dubbed the world’s richest footballer — thanks to a $20B family fortune. His wealth comes not from football, but from being the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei.
Conclusion:
With oil-fueled salaries in the Saudi Pro League, the U.S. expansion of global icons, and ever-growing endorsement opportunities, football is no longer just the world’s most popular sport — it’s one of its most lucrative industries.
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