South African football in 2024 is marked by the significant wealth amassed by its top athletes, who have combined talent, discipline, and strategic financial decisions. This year’s top 10 richest South African footballers are a testament to the rewards that come with success in both domestic and international football arenas. These players have excelled on the field, earning lucrative contracts and endorsements, and ventured into business and investments, further enhancing their financial standing.
This elite group includes retired legends who continue to influence the sport through coaching, media, and philanthropy, as well as active players who remain at the pinnacle of their careers. Their wealth reflects their contributions to football, both locally and globally, and underscores the growing economic power of South African athletes in the global sports industry.
1. Benni McCarthy
Benni McCarthy is a former South African footballer and current coach, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers the country has ever produced. Born on November 12, 1977, in Cape Town, South Africa, McCarthy made his mark both as a prolific striker and as a successful football coach. Benni McCarthy began his professional career with Seven Stars in South Africa before moving to Europe, where he played for several top clubs, including Ajax Amsterdam, Celta Vigo, FC Porto, and Blackburn Rovers. He is particularly remembered for his time at FC Porto, where he played under coach José Mourinho and won the UEFA Champions League in 2004.
Achievements
McCarthy is the all-time leading goal scorer for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, with 31 goals. His club career was equally impressive, with notable success in the UEFA Champions League, multiple domestic league titles, and personal accolades such as the Portuguese Golden Boot. After retiring from playing, McCarthy transitioned into coaching.
He has managed South African clubs such as Cape Town City FC and AmaZulu FC, where he led them to their highest-ever league finish. In 2022, he joined the coaching staff at Manchester United as a first-team coach, further solidifying his status in the football world. McCarthy has received numerous awards throughout his career, including the CAF African Player of the Year (based in Africa) and various domestic league honors.
Business Ventures
McCarthy is involved in philanthropy through his foundation, the Benni McCarthy Foundation which focuses on youth development and providing opportunities for underprivileged children in South Africa. He has also been involved in various endorsement deals and media projects, leveraging his fame to build a brand beyond football.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Benni McCarthy’s estimated net worth is approximately $20 million. His wealth comes from his successful playing career, coaching roles, endorsements, and business ventures. Benni McCarthy is celebrated not only for his contributions to football but also for his impact off the field, where he continues to influence and inspire the next generation of South African footballers.
2. Steven Pienaar
Steven Pienaar is a retired South African footballer who enjoyed a highly successful career in Europe and is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s finest football exports. Born on March 17, 1982, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Pienaar’s journey from the streets of Soweto to the top leagues of European football is a testament to his talent and determination. Pienaar began his professional career with Ajax Cape Town in South Africa before moving to Europe to join Ajax Amsterdam in 2001. His impressive performances there earned him a move to Borussia Dortmund in Germany and later to the English Premier League, where he became best known for his time at Everton.
Achievements
Pienaar was a key player for several top European clubs, including Ajax Amsterdam, Borussia Dortmund, and Tottenham Hotspur, but he is most celebrated for his time at Everton, where he was a fan favorite. He was known for his creativity, work ethic, and ability to control the midfield. Pienaar earned over 60 caps for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, and represented the country in the 2002 and 2010 FIFA World Cups. He was captain of the national team at various points in his career. Throughout his career, Pienaar received numerous accolades, including Everton’s Player of the Season award. He was also included in the Premier League Team of the Year during his peak years at Everton.
Business Ventures
Pienaar has ventured into business with his lifestyle brand, SP7, which offers a range of products including apparel and accessories. The brand is inspired by his style and career. After retiring, Pienaar has been involved in coaching and youth development, aiming to nurture the next generation of South African football talent.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Steven Pienaar’s estimated net worth is approximately $15 million. His wealth has been accumulated through his successful playing career, business ventures, and post-retirement activities in coaching and development. Steven Pienaar is remembered for his outstanding contributions to football, both in South Africa and abroad, and continues to influence the sport through his business endeavors and dedication to youth development.
3. Aaron Mokoena
Aaron Mokoena, nicknamed “Mbazo” (The Axe), is a retired South African footballer who is celebrated for his leadership and defensive skills. Born on November 25, 1980, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mokoena is best known for his role as captain of the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, and his successful career in European football. Mokoena began his professional career at a young age, moving from South Africa to Europe to join Ajax Amsterdam’s youth academy. His strong defensive abilities quickly earned him recognition, leading to a successful career in Europe, where he played for clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, and England.
Achievements
Mokoena played for several top European clubs, including Ajax Amsterdam, KRC Genk in Belgium, Blackburn Rovers, and Portsmouth in the English Premier League. He was known for his tough tackling, leadership on the field, and versatility in defense and midfield. Mokoena is the most capped player in the history of the South African national team, with over 100 appearances. He captained Bafana Bafana in major tournaments, including the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosted by South Africa. During his career, Mokoena received numerous accolades for his performances, including recognition for his leadership and contribution to South African football.
Business Ventures
Mokoena is involved in philanthropy through his foundation, the Aaron Mokoena Foundation which focuses on youth development, education, and health initiatives in South Africa. The foundation aims to provide opportunities and resources for underprivileged children. While specific details of his business ventures are private, Mokoena has been involved in various initiatives related to sports development and community empowerment.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Aaron Mokoena’s estimated net worth is approximately $13 million. His wealth primarily comes from his successful football career, endorsements, and investments in business and philanthropy. Aaron Mokoena remains a respected figure in South African football, known for his leadership both on and off the field. His contributions to the sport and his community work continue to inspire many in South Africa.
4. Quinton Fortune
Quinton Fortune is a retired South African footballer and coach who gained international recognition for his career in European football, particularly during his time at Manchester United. Born on May 21, 1977, in Cape Town, South Africa, Fortune’s journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a professional footballer is a remarkable story of perseverance and talent. Quinton Fortune moved to England at a young age, joining the prestigious Tottenham Hotspur academy. He later moved to Spain, where he played for Atlético Madrid. His performances caught the attention of Manchester United, where he would go on to have a successful career.
Achievements
Fortune is best known for his time at Manchester United, where he played from 1999 to 2006 under Sir Alex Ferguson. He was part of a highly successful era for the club, contributing to several Premier League titles and other domestic and international honors. Fortune was known for his versatility, able to play in defense and midfield. Fortune earned over 40 caps for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana. He represented South Africa in the 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups, playing a key role in the team’s midfield. After retiring as a player, Fortune transitioned into coaching. He has held various coaching roles, including a position at Manchester United’s academy, where he focused on developing young talent.
Business Ventures
Fortune has also been involved in sports media, providing expert analysis and commentary for football matches and tournaments. His insights are highly valued due to his experience at the highest level of the game. While not widely publicized, Fortune has been involved in various charitable efforts, focusing on youth development and providing opportunities for underprivileged children in South Africa.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Quinton Fortune’s estimated net worth is approximately $10 million. His wealth is primarily derived from his football career, coaching roles, media work, and investments. Quinton Fortune is respected both for his contributions to football and for his efforts to give back to the community. His legacy as one of South Africa’s most successful footballers endures, and he continues to influence the sport through his coaching and media work.
5. Percy Tau
Percy Tau is a South African professional footballer known for his agility, creativity, and goal-scoring ability. Born on May 13, 1994, in eMalahleni, South Africa, Tau has established himself as one of the country’s top football talents, with a successful career both locally and internationally. Percy Tau began his professional career with Mamelodi Sundowns in South Africa, where he quickly became one of the standout players in the South African Premier Division. His performances in domestic and continental competitions drew attention from European clubs, leading to his move abroad.
Achievements
Tau’s career took off at Mamelodi Sundowns, where he won multiple league titles and was part of the squad that won the CAF Champions League in 2016. In 2018, he moved to Europe, signing with Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League. During his time in Europe, he was loaned out to clubs like Union SG in Belgium, where he won the Proximus League Player of the Season, and later played for Club Brugge, winning the Belgian Pro League. Tau has been a key player for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, earning over 30 caps and scoring crucial goals in international competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. Percy Tau has received numerous individual awards, including the PSL Player of the Season and the CAF Champions League Best Player. His performances in Europe also earned him recognition, with several Player of the Month awards in Belgium.
Business Ventures
Percy Tau has secured endorsement deals with various brands, leveraging his popularity and success on the field. These deals contribute to his income beyond his football salary. While details of his business ventures are private, Tau is known to be involved in investments that secure his financial future, particularly in real estate and other strategic opportunities.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Percy Tau’s estimated net worth is approximately $8 million. His wealth comes from his football contracts, endorsements, and investments. Percy Tau continues to be a pivotal figure in South African football, with his success serving as an inspiration for young players aspiring to play at the highest levels of the sport. His career trajectory and business acumen ensure that his influence extends beyond the football pitch.
6. Itumeleng Khune
Itumeleng Khune is a celebrated South African footballer known for his exceptional goalkeeping skills and leadership on the field. Born on June 20, 1987, in Ventersdorp, South Africa, Khune has become one of the most iconic figures in South African football, particularly for his long-standing career with Kaizer Chiefs. Khune joined the Kaizer Chiefs youth academy at a young age and worked his way up through the ranks, making his professional debut in 2007. His quick reflexes, shot-stopping ability, and excellent distribution quickly established him as a top goalkeeper in the South African Premier Division.
Achievements
Khune has spent the majority of his career at Kaizer Chiefs, where he has won numerous domestic league titles and cup competitions. His performances have earned him several accolades, including the PSL Goalkeeper of the Season award multiple times. Khune is also known for his leadership, having captained both his club and the national team.
Khune has been a key player for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, earning over 90 caps. He represented South Africa in major tournaments, including the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, and several Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments. Khune’s leadership and consistency have made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in international football. In addition to his Goalkeeper of the Season awards, Khune has received several individual honors, including the South African Sports Star of the Year. His consistency and impact on the field have earned him widespread recognition.
Business Ventures
Khune has secured endorsements with several major brands, including sportswear and beverage companies, making him one of the most marketable athletes in South Africa. Khune has ventured into business, with investments in real estate and other sectors. He has also expressed interest in sports management and development, laying the groundwork for his post-football career.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Itumeleng Khune’s estimated net worth is approximately $7 million. His wealth is derived from his long-term football contracts, endorsement deals, and business ventures. Itumeleng Khune remains a significant figure in South African football, known not only for his exceptional goalkeeping but also for his contributions to the sport’s growth in the country. His influence extends beyond the pitch, with successful ventures in business and ongoing involvement in the football community.
7. Siphiwe Tshabalala
Siphiwe Tshabalala is a renowned South African footballer who gained global recognition for his iconic goal in the opening match of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Born on September 25, 1984, in Soweto, South Africa, Tshabalala’s career is marked by his skill, consistency, and leadership on and off the field. Tshabalala began his professional career at Free State Stars before moving to Kaizer Chiefs in 2007, where he became a key player and fan favorite. His versatility on the wing and ability to score crucial goals made him one of the most prominent figures in South African football.
Achievements
Tshabalala spent over a decade at Kaizer Chiefs, where he won several league titles and domestic cup competitions. He was known for his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability, contributing significantly to the club’s success during his tenure. In the latter part of his career, Tshabalala played for BB Erzurumspor in Turkey before returning to South Africa. Tshabalala is best known internationally for scoring the first goal of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, a stunning left-footed strike against Mexico, which became one of the most memorable moments of the tournament.
He earned over 90 caps for Bafana Bafana, representing South Africa in multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and other international competitions. Throughout his career, Tshabalala received numerous accolades, including Kaizer Chiefs’ Player of the Season and South African Sports Star of the Year. His 2010 World Cup goal was also nominated for the FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal of the year.
Business Ventures
Tshabalala is actively involved in philanthropy through his foundation, which focuses on youth development, education, and community upliftment in South Africa. Tshabalala has ventured into various business endeavors, including investments in real estate and co-ownership of a sports management company. He is also involved in the fashion industry, having launched his clothing line, Shabba, which reflects his personal style and brand.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Siphiwe Tshabalala’s estimated net worth is approximately $6 million. His wealth comes from his football career, business ventures, endorsements, and philanthropic activities. Siphiwe Tshabalala remains a beloved figure in South African football, celebrated for his contributions to the sport and his efforts to give back to the community. His legacy as a player and entrepreneur continues to inspire many in South Africa and beyond.
8. Lucas Radebe
Lucas Radebe is a revered South African footballer known for his exceptional defensive skills and leadership. Born on April 12, 1969, in Soweto, South Africa, Radebe’s career is marked by his significant contributions to both club and country. Radebe began his professional career with Kaizer Chiefs in South Africa before moving to England in 1994 to join Leeds United. His influence at Leeds United was profound, and he became one of the most respected figures in English football.
Achievements
Radebe played for Leeds United from 1994 to 2005, becoming a club legend. He served as captain and was integral to Leeds’ successful runs in domestic and European competitions. His leadership was key in Leeds reaching the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2001. Radebe was named Leeds United Player of the Year and is remembered as one of the club’s greatest defenders.
Radebe earned over 70 caps for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, and was a key figure in the team’s defense during the 1990s and early 2000s. He captained the team and represented South Africa in major tournaments, including the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which South Africa won. Radebe received numerous accolades for his contributions, including the South African Sports Star of the Year award and the English Football Hall of Fame induction.
Business Ventures
Radebe is actively involved in philanthropy through his foundation, Lucas Radebe Foundation which focuses on education, youth development, and healthcare initiatives in South Africa. Radebe has been involved in various business ventures, including investments in real estate and sports management. He also engages in media work and sports commentary, leveraging his extensive experience in football.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Lucas Radebe’s estimated net worth is approximately $5.5 million. His wealth comes from his successful football career, business ventures, endorsements, and philanthropic activities. Lucas Radebe’s legacy extends beyond his football career, as he continues to impact South African society through his charitable work and business endeavors. His contributions to football and his community have solidified his status as a prominent figure in both spheres.
9. Andile Jali
Andile Jali is a prominent South African footballer known for his dynamic midfield play and strong defensive abilities. Born on April 10, 1990, in Matatiele, South Africa, Jali has established himself as one of the top midfielders in South African football, with a successful career both domestically and internationally. Jali began his professional career with the South African club Pretoria University before making a significant move to Orlando Pirates in 2009. His performances at Orlando Pirates quickly made him a household name in South African football, leading to opportunities abroad.
Achievements
Jali had a successful stint with Orlando Pirates, where he won multiple domestic league titles and cup competitions, including the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the MTN 8. In 2014, Jali moved to Europe to play for Belgian club KV Oostende, where he continued to excel, gaining valuable international experience. He returned to South Africa in 2018 to join Mamelodi Sundowns, where he won additional league titles and was a key player in their CAF Champions League campaigns.
Jali has been a regular for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, earning over 40 caps. He has represented South Africa in major tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Throughout his career, Jali has received numerous accolades, including PSL Midfielder of the Season and several individual match awards for his performances in both domestic and international competitions.
Business Ventures
Jali has been involved in various endorsement deals with sports brands, leveraging his fame and success in football. While details of his business ventures are private, Jali is known to have made strategic investments, including in real estate. He has expressed interest in entrepreneurship, particularly in ventures that align with his passion for football and community development.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Andile Jali’s estimated net worth is approximately $4 million. His wealth is primarily derived from his football contracts, endorsements, and investments. Andile Jali continues to be an influential figure in South African football, known for his tenacity on the field and his contributions to the teams he has played for. His success story serves as an inspiration to many young footballers in South Africa.
10. Teko Modise
Teko Modise is a retired South African footballer widely regarded as one of the most talented midfielders the country has produced. Born on December 22, 1982, in Soweto, South Africa, Modise’s flair, creativity, and vision on the field earned him the nickname “The General.” Modise began his professional career with Ria Stars and later played for City Pillars, where his performances caught the eye of top South African clubs. His big break came when he joined SuperSport United, but he became a household name during his time at Orlando Pirates, where he established himself as one of the best players in the Premier Soccer League (PSL).
Achievements
Modise’s career highlights include successful stints with Orlando Pirates, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Cape Town City FC. At Orlando Pirates, he won back-to-back PSL titles and numerous cup competitions. At Mamelodi Sundowns, Modise was part of the squad that won the 2016 CAF Champions League, the pinnacle of club football in Africa. His skill, passing ability, and leadership made him a standout player in every team he played for.
Modise earned over 60 caps for the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, and was a key player in the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2010 FIFA World Cup hosted by South Africa. He was known for his ability to control the game from midfield and his contributions to the national team were significant. Modise won the PSL Footballer of the Year award twice and was often included in the PSL Team of the Season. His performances earned him widespread recognition as one of the best players in South African football.
Business Ventures
Since retiring from professional football, Modise has transitioned into a successful media career. He works as a football analyst and commentator, sharing his insights on the game through various sports channels in South Africa. Modise released an autobiography titled The Curse of Teko Modise, where he shares his life story, struggles, and triumphs. He is also involved in motivational speaking, using his platform to inspire young athletes and the broader community. Modise has invested in several business ventures, including real estate and the fashion industry. He also runs a football academy aimed at developing young talent in South Africa.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Teko Modise’s estimated net worth is approximately $5 million. His wealth comes from his football career, media work, endorsements, and business ventures. Teko Modise remains an influential figure in South African football, known not only for his on-field achievements but also for his contributions to the sport and his community through various post-retirement endeavors.
