Cristiano Ronaldo has maintained his status as the highest-paid footballer in the world for 2024, with total earnings amounting to an impressive $285 million, as reported by Forbes. The 39-year-old forward, currently playing for Al Nassr, generates a staggering $220 million from on-field activities, which encompasses his salary, bonuses, and club image rights. Additionally, he reaps a significant $65 million through off-field ventures, such as brand collaborations and personal business interests. Ronaldo’s remarkable global appeal is underscored by his social media presence, boasting over 900 million followers. His recent success on platforms like YouTube, where he quickly gained over a million subscribers and registered more than 544 million views, is an extension of his brand’s reach.
In the second position is Lionel Messi, whose earnings total $135 million. The 37-year-old who plays for Inter Miami makes $60 million on the field while bringing in $75 million from endorsements. Messi’s prominence as one of the game’s all-time greats has only been amplified after leading Argentina to another Copa América title. This accomplishment has further solidified his role in Inter Miami’s success, where the club achieved the highest points in Major League Soccer (MLS) ahead of the playoffs. Messi’s contract with Inter Miami extends through 2025, and there is an option for him to continue in 2026, indicating the club’s commitment to leveraging his star power for their benefit.
Neymar comes in third place with earnings totalling $110 million. The Brazilian star, currently with Al Hilal, earns $80 million on the field despite facing injury challenges. Yet, his marketing potential remains strong, supported by a considerable following of 225 million on Instagram, where he represents major brands like Puma. Just behind Neymar is Karim Benzema, who has earned $104 million, with impressive on-field earnings of $100 million while only generating $4 million from endorsements. After a rocky previous season marred by injuries, the 36-year-old Benzema has regained his form, scoring seven goals in just six matches this season, indicating his potential to capitalize on both performance and commercial opportunities.
The list also features Kylian Mbappé, the young 25-year-old sensation playing for Real Madrid, who has earned $90 million. His earnings breakdown reveals $70 million derived from his on-field performance, juxtaposed with $20 million in off-field pursuits. However, Mbappé finds himself entangled in a legal dispute with his former club, Paris Saint-Germain, due to unpaid wages that amount to approximately $60 million. Following closely is Erling Haaland, the 24-year-old star from Manchester City, with total earnings of $60 million, including $46 million from salaries and bonuses. Haaland’s club success, marked by winning major trophies, contrasts with Norway’s struggle in international competitions.
Properties of Vinícius Júnior, Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, and Kevin De Bruyne complete the top rankings of 2024’s highest-paid footballers. Vinícius Júnior earns $55 million, which includes $40 million from on-field success and $15 million from endorsements, securing partnerships with brands like PlayStation and Pepsi. Mohamed Salah follows with $53 million, combining $35 million from on-field activities with $18 million from endorsements, emphasizing his role as a notable brand ambassador in the MENA region. Sadio Mané, earning $52 million at Al Nassr with $48 million on the field and $4 million off, is recognized for his philanthropic efforts in Senegal. Finally, Kevin De Bruyne rounds out the top ten, making $39 million, divided between on-field earnings of $35 million and off-field revenue of $4 million, notably choosing to stay in Manchester despite lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia.
Forbes’ methodology for ranking these footballers includes evaluating their total earnings from both on-field and off-field activities, factoring in elements like salaries, bonuses, endorsements, licensing deals, and personal businesses. The figures are derived from well-established public databases such as Capology.com and insights from industry insiders, some of whom chose to remain anonymous. It’s essential to note that while Forbes includes substantial earnings, it does not account for taxes, agents’ fees, or investment income. Such precise evaluations aim to create a comprehensive view of financial standings among the world’s football elite, showcasing how these athletes have successfully leveraged their talents to command lucrative financial portfolios and remain influential figures within the global sports landscape.
