World's richest footballer is ex-Chelsea prodigy who is worth 40 times more than the Beckhams
World's richest footballer is ex-Chelsea prodigy who is worth 40 times more than the Beckhams
David Beckham's wealth is the stuff of legend - but the former England captain still can't get close to the world's richest footballer, Faiq Bolkiah, who has a net worth of around £20billion
Sir David Beckham, co-owner and president of Inter Miami CF
(Image: Getty Images )
The recent knighthood of Sir David Beckham has further solidified his standing as a national icon, recognised for his footballing prowess and global impact. The 50-year-old, together with his wife Victoria, has constructed an empire that reaches well beyond the football field, with their combined wealth estimated at £500million, according to The Sunday Times Rich List.
However, their wealth is dwarfed by the astonishing fortune of Faiq Bolkiah, the world's wealthiest footballer, whose net worth is reported to be around £20billion - approximately 40 times that of the Beckhams.
Bolkiah, a 27-year-old winger who was once part of Chelsea's academy, is a member of the Brunei Royal family, with his vast wealth primarily due to his position as the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah.
Unlike Beckham, whose wealth originates from a distinguished career with Manchester United, Real Madrid, and numerous profitable endorsements, Bolkiah's fortune is largely inherited.
The Brunei Royal family's extensive assets include oil and gas reserves, luxury properties, and investments that overshadow the earnings of even the most successful sportspeople.
While Bolkiah's football career has brought him modest earnings, his Royal status puts him in a financial league all of his own. In contrast, the Beckhams have carefully built their wealth through football, fashion, and media endeavours.
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David's illustrious football career, which boasts 115 caps for England and numerous league titles, set the stage. His ventures post-retirement, including co-ownership of Inter Miami and securing lucrative sponsorships with brands like Adidas and Haig Club, have significantly amplified their wealth, reports the Mirror.
Victoria's fashion empire, especially her namesake label, has contributed further millions to their fortune. The couple's business savvy is evident in their £70m in company assets and £40m in dividends over recent years.
However, Bolkiah operates on a different level. His wealth affords him a lifestyle that includes private jets and supercars, making the Beckhams' collection of Bentleys and Range Rovers appear modest in comparison.
While David and Victoria's property portfolio - encompassing a Notting Hill townhouse, a Cotswolds mansion, and a Miami penthouse - is impressive, Bolkiah's access to palatial residences across Brunei and beyond is unmatched. Despite his immense wealth, Bolkiah maintains a relatively low profile in football, focusing on his career in Thailand and with the Brunei national team rather than pursuing global fame.
He currently plays for Ratchaburi, having transferred from fellow Thai League 1 club Chonburi in 2023. Before this, he was signed to Portuguese club Maritimo, but never made a senior appearance for the team.
Faiq Jefri Bolkiah of Chonburi FC in action during the Thai League 1 match between Chonburi and Nakhonratchasima Mazda
(Image: Getty Images )
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Bolkiah spent most of his youth career in England, initially with Southampton, then Chelsea and later Leicester. However, he was unable to secure a professional contract - despite being an international footballer (he's earned six caps for Brunei) since 2016.
The contrast between Bolkiah and Beckham underscores the diverse routes to wealth in football. While David epitomises self-made success, utilising talent and branding to accumulate wealth, Bolkiah represents a unique crossroads of sport and inherited wealth, where football is more a passion than a financial necessity.
As Sir David revels in the honour of his knighthood, his and Victoria's £500m empire, though impressive, pales in comparison to Bolkiah's billions, highlighting the staggering magnitude of the Brunei prince's wealth.
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