Women’s football has come a long way. Once sidelined and underfunded, the women’s game is now brimming with global talent, increasing broadcast deals, and significantly improved wages. From sold-out stadiums at the FIFA Women’s World Cup to UEFA Champions League drama, interest in women’s football is soaring—and so are player salaries.
In this feature, we reveal the highest paid female footballers in the world, from pioneers like Marta to emerging icons like Trinity Rodman. Whether you’re curious about who earns the most, or how female players are closing the gap with their male counterparts, this list offers insight into the evolving landscape of international football.
Who Is The Highest-Paid Female Footballer In The World Right Now?
Topping the chart is none other than Trinity Rodman, the dynamic striker for the Washington Spirit and the USWNT. At just 22 years old, Rodman commands a reported salary package of over £700,000 per year, not including her lucrative endorsements with brands like Adidas. She’s the highest-paid female footballer globally, earning more than most of her peers in the NWSL and Europe.
Rodman’s performances on the pitch have matched her earnings. She was named Rookie of the Year in 2021 and has since become a staple in both club and country lineups. Her success highlights the shifting priorities in women’s football, where talent, marketability, and youth are increasingly rewarded.
Is Sam Kerr Still Among The Highest Paid Female Footballers?
Sam Kerr, Chelsea’s star striker and Australia’s poster girl for football, remains one of the highest-paid female players in the world. With a salary of around £450,000 per year and significant off-pitch income, Kerr is among the elite.
A Champions League regular with Chelsea and a standout figure at the 2023 World Cup, Kerr’s performances have made her a household name. She’s not only a lethal forward but also one of the faces of the women’s game. Her value goes beyond goals; she’s become a symbol of women’s football’s growth, especially in Australia.
Has Ada Hegerberg Recovered Her Status At Lyon?
Ada Hegerberg was once the undisputed queen of Europe. The first-ever female Ballon d’Or winner and a serial goal scorer for Lyon, Hegerberg was the benchmark. Despite an injury-hit spell, she remains one of Lyon’s top earners and among the highest paid female footballers globally.
Her current salary stands at an estimated £400,000 annually. Having led Lyon to multiple league titles and eight European Cups, Hegerberg’s legacy is cemented. She’s still a force in the Champions League, and her recent return to Norway’s national team underscores her enduring value.
What Makes Marta A Financial Powerhouse Despite Her Age?
Marta, widely considered the greatest female footballer of all time, continues to earn handsomely. The Brazilian legend, now playing for Orlando, may not command the highest salary on the pitch anymore, but her off-field earnings and legacy deals keep her in the top 10.
She holds the record for 17 World Cup goals, more than any footballer in the world—male or female. Her status as a six-time FIFA World Player of the Year and Olympic icon continues to make her a marketing dream. Marta’s total income is bolstered by ambassadorial roles and brand partnerships.
Where Does Aitana Bonmatí Rank After Her Player Of The Year Win?
Fresh off being crowned UEFA Player of the Year, Aitana Bonmatí is cashing in on her incredible 2023-24 campaign. The Barcelona midfielder now earns close to £350,000 annually, placing her firmly in the top 10 highest-paid female footballers.
Bonmatí was instrumental in Barcelona’s Champions League triumph and La Liga dominance. Her technical brilliance and tactical intelligence have drawn comparisons with the greatest midfielders of her generation. A future Ballon d’Or winner? Very likely.
Is Alexia Putellas Still Among Football’s Elite Earners?
Another Barcelona gem, Alexia Putellas, remains a financial and footballing juggernaut. A two-time Ballon d’Or winner, Putellas’s salary and sponsorship deals push her annual earnings to around £400,000.
Despite missing much of the previous season due to injury, she returned in time to help Barca reclaim their Champions League crown. Her leadership, flair, and status as a world player of the year keep her firmly in the spotlight. Alexia’s continued influence on and off the pitch cements her spot in any highest-paid list.
What About Wendie Renard’s Enduring Impact At Lyon?
Wendie Renard, the towering defender and long-time captain of Lyon, continues to enjoy a strong financial package. Earning just under £400,000 a year, she’s one of the top-paid defenders in women’s football.
Her honours list is staggering: 14 league titles and eight European Cups with Lyon. Renard has also been a regular in the French national team and is known for her aerial dominance and leadership. In terms of longevity, Renard stands tall—both figuratively and literally.
Has Keira Walsh Justified Her Record Transfer Fee?
Midfielder Keira Walsh made headlines when she became the most expensive female footballer ever following her move to Barcelona from Manchester City. The transfer fee alone was a landmark moment in the history of women’s football.
Walsh now earns an estimated £360,000 annually. Her role in England’s Euro 2022 win and Barcelona’s Champions League success has justified the investment. As a deep-lying playmaker, she’s become indispensable for both club and country.
Is Christine Sinclair Still One Of The Best Paid Players?
Canada’s iconic forward Christine Sinclair continues to be a well-compensated figure. While her peak earning years may be behind her, she remains a top earner in the NWSL with Portland Thorns.
Sinclair’s resume includes Olympic gold, countless league titles, and being the all-time leading international goal scorer. Though nearing retirement, her experience and status as a pioneer of the women’s game still draw significant financial rewards.
Is Women’s Football Finally Closing The Gap On Male Counterparts?
While there’s still a considerable wage gap between male and female players, women’s football is heading in the right direction. Commercial revenue, broadcasting rights, and club investments have all increased significantly over the past five years.
The rise in player salaries, record-breaking attendances, and visibility across Super League and Champions League matches have brought the women’s game closer to parity. Players like Sam Kerr, Trinity Rodman, and Alexia Putellas are global icons, not just within women’s football but in world football at large.
Summary: Top 10 Highest-Paid Female Footballers
- Trinity Rodman is currently the highest-paid player with over £700k annually
- Sam Kerr remains a top earner and key figure at Premier League club Chelsea
- Ada Hegerberg and Wendie Renard continue to dominate financially at Lyon
- Marta still earns massively thanks to her legacy and endorsements
- Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmatí are leading the charge at Barcelona
- Keira Walsh has justified her record salary after joining Barcelona from Manchester City
- Christine Sinclair maintains her financial status thanks to her legendary career
- Salaries across women’s football are rising with increased interest and investment
- Female footballers are becoming genuine global stars in international football and beyond
