When Beyonce’s “Move” comes on from “Renaissance,” it is a musical indicator that things are about to turn up. The proverbial meaning of the song suggests that those who are making marks on this world need space to thrive and live out loud as their authentic selves. Well, French soccer player Kylian Mbappé is an example of one who needs space on and off the court as he makes his next moves.
In a recent estimation by Sportico, Mbappé is now the highest-paid soccer player in the world.
The 23-year-old player entered the French League in 2017 and has been playing for the Paris Saint-Germain F.C. since then. Last season, he made 28 goals, 17 assists, and 147 shots.
According to an interview with the New York Times, Mbappé always had an affinity for the sport. When he was only age 14, he was invited by his favorite childhood team, Real Madrid, to join the soccer club for a week of training. That moment sparked his ambition and passion for going to heights unseen.
“To be honest, since I’m a young guy, I never had limits in my ambition,” Mbappé said to The Times. “Because I always say you don’t have to put a limit on yourself.”
Not placing limits on himself has proved to work for his career. According to Sportico, Mbappé is slated to earn $125 million — $105 million for his on-field play and $20 million in endorsement deals.
The soccer player’s deals include partnerships with brands like Nike, Mengniu, Hublot, Electronic Arts, Christian Dior, and Oakley. His latest endorsement includes being an investor and ambassador for Sorare, an NFT fantasy sports.
With his many deals in place, Kylian Mbappé has amassed a $150 million net worth, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
HIGHEST-PAID SOCCER PLAYERS 2022:
The 10 top-earning players are projected to take home an estimated $625 million during the 2022-23 season, with 33% of the total from endorsements. https://t.co/OD5apmefBC pic.twitter.com/EAJRQZWuSu
— Sportico (@Sportico) September 16, 2022
Eyes On What's Next
His earnings put him above Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who have dominated the top earning spots for years.
Mbappé is also looking to take over another top spot.
“I think I’m about to win it,” Mbappé said in regards to winning the world player of the year trophy to The Times. “I always say I dream about everything. I have no limits. So, of course, like you say, it’s a new generation. And Ronaldo, Messi — you’re gonna stop. We have to find someone else, someone new.”
