Kaká

Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite, known as Kaká, was the Ballon d'Or winner in 2007 and the last player to win the award before the Messi-Ronaldo duopoly began. His peak years at AC Milan (2003-2009) saw him earn $10 million per year in salary, and his world-record $68 million transfer to Real Madrid in 2009 came with a salary of $15 million per year. He was one of the highest-paid footballers of his era.

Kaká's endorsement portfolio included Adidas, Armani, Hyundai, and Pepsi, generating additional millions annually. His devout Christian faith made him an unusual brand ambassador -- clean-living, family-oriented, and controversy-free in a sport known for tabloid drama. He was one of the first footballers to amass a massive social media following, which he has maintained post-retirement.

Post-career, Kaká invested in real estate in Orlando, Florida (where he finished his playing career with Orlando City), and in Brazil. He has also been involved in philanthropic work through his foundation. His net worth of $85 million reflects a career that peaked before the salary inflation of the 2020s but was maximized through endorsements and smart investments.