While Sir David Beckham’s recent knighthood cements his status as a British icon and global celebrity, there is another name in football circles that quietly overshadows his fortune — Faiq Bolkiah, widely regarded as the world’s richest footballer.
At 27, Bolkiah’s net worth is estimated to be around £20 billion, a staggering sum that makes him 40 times richer than David and Victoria Beckham, whose combined wealth is pegged at £500 million, according to The Sunday Times Rich List. Even football giants like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, despite record-breaking contracts and massive endorsement deals, come nowhere close to Bolkiah’s wealth.
Bolkiah, a former youth player at Chelsea, Southampton, and Leicester City, is the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, Hassanal Bolkiah. His immense wealth comes not from football, but from being a member of one of the richest royal families in the world — one that controls vast oil reserves, luxury assets, and sovereign investments.
In contrast, the Beckhams have built their empire through football, fashion, and brand endorsements. David’s post-retirement success, including co-owning Inter Miami CF, and Victoria’s eponymous fashion label, have contributed significantly to their fortune. Their £70 million in company assets and £40 million in dividends reflect savvy entrepreneurship, but pale next to Bolkiah’s access to royal wealth.
Despite his riches, Bolkiah leads a relatively modest football career. He currently plays for Ratchaburi in Thailand’s top division, after a stint with Chonburi and an earlier move to Portuguese club Marítimo, where he never made a senior appearance.
With only six caps for the Brunei national team, Bolkiah is far from the spotlight enjoyed by Ronaldo or Messi. But in terms of wealth, he towers above them all.