Top 10 Highest-Paid Female Footballers Worldwide in 2026
Following her recent contract extension, Washington Spirit's Trinity Rodman now holds the title of the world's highest-paid female footballer, earning £1,480,000 annually. The rise in women's football has brought increased professionalism and significantly higher salaries for top players.
The sport has evolved from being seen as recreational to a fully professional arena where athletes thrive both competitively and financially. This shift is reflected in the growing earnings of leading stars such as Alexia Putellas, Sam Kerr, and Aitana Bonmati.
Women’s Football Transformation
Once marginalized, women’s football now shines on the global stage. Despite the pay gap with male footballers—Cristiano Ronaldo earns £3.4 million weekly at Al Nassr—the progress in female salaries offers optimism for more balanced opportunities. England captain Leah Williamson’s advice last year to have a backup plan underlines how far things have come.
Top 10 Highest-Earning Female Footballers in 2026
- Trinity Rodman (USA, Washington Spirit) - £1,480,000 yearly
- Aitana Bonmati (Spain, Barcelona) - £856,000 yearly
- Sophia Wilson (USA, Portland Thorns) - £739,000 yearly
- Alexia Putellas (Spain, Barcelona) - £607,000 yearly
- Sam Kerr (Australia, Chelsea) - £466,000 yearly
- Lauren Hemp (England, Manchester City) - £400,000 yearly
- Keira Walsh (England, Chelsea) - £382,000 yearly
- Ada Hegerberg (Norway, Lyon) - £345,000 yearly
- Marta (Brazil, Orlando Pride) - £335,000 yearly
- Wendie Renard (France, Lyon) - £309,000 yearly
Player Profiles
Long synonymous with Lyon, Renard has been integral to the club since 2006. Her leadership and defensive strength helped Lyon win eight Champions League trophies. She also impresses offensively with 101 league goals to her name.
Often called one of the greatest female footballers ever, Marta has won FIFA World Player of the Year six times. She holds records including Brazil’s top scorer and most World Cup goals by any player—17. At 39, she remains a remarkable figure in the sport.
The first winner of the Ballon d'Or Feminin in 2018, Hegerberg is Lyon’s all-time top scorer in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Despite injury setbacks, Lyon renewed her contract in 2024, showing their confidence in her talent.
Walsh's £333,000 transfer to Barcelona in 2022 set a record. Returning to England with Chelsea, she now earns more than that fee yearly. A key midfield force, she played a pivotal role in England’s 2022 European Championship win.
At just 25, Hemp’s rise has been rapid. Recognized as a future star by Karen Carney, she has scored 20 goals in 72 appearances for England. Her versatility and pace make her a constant attacking threat.
Kerr is an icon in women’s football, leading Australia to the World Cup semi-finals in 2024. With 69 goals in 131 caps, she was the NWSL’s top scorer until 2024. Kerr’s personality and skill earn her a substantial salary alongside major sponsorships.
Putellas, two-time Ballon d'Or winner, has been vital to Barcelona’s success. Known as "La Reina," she champions equality and empowerment off the pitch through her foundation and documentary work, adding depth to her sporting achievements.
Wilson, who extended her contract in 2025, boasts 44 goals for Portland and 24 international goals. Named US Soccer Female Player of the Year in 2022, she combines speed and skill, making her a standout forward in the NWSL.
Bonmati is seen as Barcelona’s heir apparent to Putellas. Her midfield mastery was key in Barcelona's recent Champions League wins and Spain's first Women's World Cup victory. Her contract until 2028 reflects her value and status.
Rodman represents the new generation of US women’s football stars. Daughter of NBA legend Dennis Rodman, she has carved out her own legacy in the NWSL and national team. Her record-breaking contract highlights the sport's growth and her rising prominence.
