Ronaldo Vs Messi Vs Neymar: Who Has the Highest Net Worth
Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar are three of the biggest names in world football. Their talent has earned them global recognition, countless trophies, and record-breaking contracts. But beyond the pitch, they are also among the wealthiest athletes in history.
This article compares their net worth, looking at salaries, endorsements, and business ventures to see who leads football’s financial race.
Cristiano Ronaldo Net Worth

Cristiano Ronaldo is often regarded as the richest footballer in the world. His net worth is estimated at around $900 million, with career earnings surpassing the $1 billion mark.
- Club Contracts: From Manchester United and Real Madrid to Juventus and now Al-Nassr, Ronaldo has consistently commanded some of the highest wages in football.
- Endorsements: His long-term Nike deal, alongside partnerships with Herbalife and Clear, make him one of the most marketable athletes in history.
- Business Ventures: The CR7 brand, which includes hotels, fashion lines, and gyms, adds significant revenue.
- Social Media: With the highest number of followers on Instagram, Ronaldo also profits heavily from sponsored content.
Lionel Messi Net Worth

Lionel Messi’s net worth is currently estimated at $600-700 million, placing him just behind Ronaldo in financial rankings.
- Club Contracts: Messi’s final Barcelona contract was the most lucrative in football at the time, while his move to PSG also came with huge wages. At Inter Miami, his deal includes revenue-sharing with sponsors and potential club ownership stakes.
- Endorsements: Adidas, Pepsi, Budweiser, and Hard Rock Café are among his long-standing partners.
- Other Ventures: Messi has invested in real estate and hotel chains, steadily building wealth outside football.
Neymar Net Worth

Neymar is not far behind his two rivals. His net worth is estimated at $250-300 million.
- Transfers and Contracts: His 2017 transfer to Paris Saint-Germain remains the most expensive in history at €222 million. His PSG contract has made him one of the highest-paid players in the world.
- Endorsements: Puma, PokerStars, and Red Bull have all partnered with Neymar, contributing heavily to his fortune.
- Lifestyle and Investments: While not as commercially diversified as Ronaldo or Messi, Neymar still holds significant investments and luxury assets.
Net Worth Comparison
|
Player |
Estimated Net Worth |
Key Income Sources |
| Cristiano Ronaldo | $900 million | Club salaries, endorsements, CR7 businesses |
| Lionel Messi | $600-700 million | Contracts, endorsements, investments |
| Neymar | $250-300 million | PSG salary, endorsements, sponsorships |
Analysis
- Cristiano Ronaldo remains ahead due to his global brand and extensive business ventures.
- Lionel Messi follows closely, with steady growth from his MLS contract and endorsements.
- Neymar, while incredibly wealthy, is still some distance behind Ronaldo and Messi in overall fortune.
- Their net worths show how football’s global reach has transformed players into worldwide icons. While trophies and records define their careers, their financial legacies will also leave a lasting impact.
Conclusion
Cristiano Ronaldo currently leads the financial race with an estimated net worth of $900 million, followed by Lionel Messi at $600-700 million, and Neymar at $250-300 million. Together, they represent football’s golden era, dominating not just on the pitch but also in wealth and influence.
FAQs
Q1. Who is richer, Ronaldo or Messi?
Cristiano Ronaldo is currently estimated to be richer than Lionel Messi, with around $900 million compared to Messi’s $600-700 million.
Q2. How much is Neymar worth?
Neymar’s net worth is estimated at around $250-300 million.
Q3. Who was the first footballer to earn $1 billion in career earnings?
Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi both surpassed $1 billion in career earnings, according to Forbes.
Q4. Does Neymar earn more than Messi or Ronaldo in salary?
Neymar has earned some of the highest wages during his PSG years, but overall Ronaldo and Messi remain financially stronger due to endorsements and businesses.
Q5. Which footballer has the strongest brand outside the pitch?
Cristiano Ronaldo leads with his CR7 brand, which includes fashion, hotels, and fitness businesses.
Also Read- Neymar To Inherit Over $1 Billion Fortune From Brazilian Billionaire
