A Wealth Beyond Imagination: The Brunei Prince Who Redefines Football Fortunes
In a stunning revelation that challenges the conventional narratives of football wealth, Faiq Bolkiah emerges as the world’s richest footballer, with a staggering net worth of approximately USD 20 billion—a figure that makes even global superstars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi look modest by comparison.
While Ronaldo boasts an estimated net worth of USD 1 billion and Messi commands USD 600 million, Bolkiah’s astronomical wealth stems not from football contracts or endorsements but from his royal lineage. At just 26 years old, he represents a unique intersection of sporting passion and extraordinary privilege.
Who is Faiq Bolkiah?
Bolkiah is no ordinary footballer. He is the son of Brunei’s Prince Jeffrey Bolkiah and nephew to Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who was crowned the world’s richest man in 1997. Despite his immense wealth, Bolkiah’s commitment to football remains genuine and passionate.
“I have been playing football since a very young age, and from an early age, I have always loved being on the field and playing with the ball at my feet,” Bolkiah shared in an interview with The Sun, revealing a surprising humility that contrasts with his royal background.
A global citizen with local roots
Born in Los Angeles and holding dual Bruneian and American citizenship, Bolkiah made a deliberate choice to represent Brunei’s national team. Since 2014, he has been an integral part of the national football squad, even serving as captain since 2018. Currently, he plays as a winger for Ratchaburi in Thai League 1, demonstrating his continued dedication to the sport.
The extent of Bolkiah’s wealth is nearly incomprehensible. His father reportedly owns over 2,300 cars, including prestigious brands like Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, and Bentley. Some sources suggest Bolkiah spends an astonishing USD 35 million monthly on luxury items, automobiles, and accessories.
Yet, in a remarkable twist, Bolkiah claims to live a simple life. In a candid interview, he revealed that he even struggles to spend his modest monthly salary of USD 2,900—a statement that adds an intriguing layer to his extraordinary financial narrative.
Education and background
Bolkiah’s path was further shaped by his education at Bradfield College in Great Britain, suggesting a commitment to personal development beyond his royal privileges and sporting career.
Faiq Bolkiah represents a unique phenomenon in the world of sports—a royal athlete whose net worth transcends traditional sporting economics. His story is not just about wealth but about choosing passion over privilege and maintaining humility in the face of extraordinary circumstances.
While he may not be as globally recognized as Ronaldo or Messi, Faiq Bolkiah’s narrative offers a fascinating glimpse into a world where royal heritage and sporting passion intertwine in the most unexpected ways.
