Not Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi: Meet Faiq Bolkiah, the world's richest footballer with a net worth of Rs 1.6 lakh crore

In the world of football, names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are often associated with immense wealth and fame. These legendary players have earned millions through their incredible skills and successful careers. Yet, there is one footballer whose wealth surpasses even these giants. With an astounding net worth of $20 billion (about Rs 1.6 lakh crore), this footballer is not just another player on the field but a royal figure with a fortune that sets him apart from the rest. Let's look at the story of Faiq Bolkiah, the world's richest player, whose fortune and royal heritage make him a standout in the sports world.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi: Top Earners in Football

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi

In 2023, Cristiano Ronaldo became the highest-paid footballer globally with earnings of $260 million after joining Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr. Lionel Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, earned $130 million, making him the second highest-paid athlete. Despite their massive net worth—Ronaldo at around $600 million (Rs 4,972 crore) and Messi at about $650 million (Rs 5,387 crore)—they are not the richest footballers in the world.

Neymar Jr and Other Wealthy Footballers

Neymar Jr, who signed a $100 million-per-year contract with Saudi Pro Club team Al Hilal in 2023, is also among the wealthy footballers. However, with a net worth of $200 million (approximately Rs 1,657 crore), he still doesn’t reach the top of the list.

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Meet Faiq Bolkiah: The Richest Footballer

Faiq Bolkiah | Photo: The Sun

So, who is the world’s richest footballer? It’s Faiq Bolkiah. With a net worth of $20 billion (around Rs 1.6 lakh crore), Bolkiah far exceeds the wealth of other footballers, as reported in TOI. He is a member of the Brunei royal family, plays for the Ratchaburi Football Club in Thai League 1, and has served as the captain of the Brunei national team. His football career includes time with Premier League clubs like Southampton, Chelsea, and Leicester City.

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Faiq Bolkiah’s Background

Faiq Bolkiah was born in Los Angeles but chose to represent Brunei, his home country, instead of the United States. In an interview with The Sun, he expressed his lifelong passion for football: “I have been playing football since I was very young, and from an early age, I have always enjoyed being on the field and playing with the ball at my feet.”

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A Legacy of Wealth

Faiq Bolkiah is the son of Jefri Bolkiah, Prince of Brunei, and the nephew of Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei. His family is renowned for their wealth, with his father owning an astounding collection of over 2,300 cars, including Rolls-Royces, Ferraris, and Bentleys. The family also has a luxurious yacht with 24-carat gold fittings and nine aircraft, including an Airbus.

Faiq Bolkiah's career as a footballer

• AFC Newbury Beginnings: Faiq Bolkiah began his football journey at AFC Newbury in England, which set the stage for his future in the sport.
• Move to Southampton (2009): At the age of 11, Bolkiah transitioned to one of England's top youth academies, Southampton. This move highlighted his potential, drawing attention from some of the Premier League’s top clubs.
• Training with Reading and Trial at Arsenal: After leaving Southampton, Bolkiah trained with Reading and received a trial with Arsenal. Though Arsenal did not offer him a permanent deal, Chelsea signed him to a two-year youth contract.
• Breakthrough at Leicester City: Bolkiah gained significant attention during his time with Leicester City, where he signed a three-year contract in late 2015. Despite his potential, he did not make a senior appearance for Leicester.
• Move to Maritimo: Bolkiah later moved to Maritimo, a club in Liga Portugal. Unfortunately, he struggled to secure regular playing time there.
• Career Revival in Thailand (2021): Bolkiah's career took a positive turn in 2021 when he joined Chonburi in the Thai top flight. He now plays for Ratchaburi, marking a successful chapter in his football career.

Faiq Bolkiah injury

Faiq Bolkiah in hospital

At 25 years old, Faiq Bolkiah's career has hit a rough patch due to a severe leg injury. After joining the game, he collided with an opponent and had to be taken to the hospital because of the serious nature of his injury.

Bolkiah was hurt when his ankle got trapped under the opponent’s body. Physios quickly taped up his ankle, and he was sent to a nearby hospital for further treatment.

It’s unclear how long he will be out of action, but Bolkiah is hoping to return to playing football as soon as possible.

While Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Neymar Jr. are among the richest footballers, none compare to Faiq Bolkiah’s incredible fortune. As the world’s richest footballer, Bolkiah’s wealth and royal background make him a standout figure in the football world.

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