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Top 20 Highest-Paid Rugby Players in the World
- Chester Khangelani Mbekela
- Mar 31
- 3 min read
Article By: Zila Mbekela
In the ever-evolving world of rugby, player salaries have seen significant increases, reflecting the sport's growing global appeal and the exceptional talents gracing the field. As of 2025, here's an exciting look at the top 20 highest-paid rugby players, showcasing the elite athletes who not only dominate the game but also command impressive earnings.
1. Siya Kolisi (Sharks) – £808,000
Leading the pack is South African icon Siya Kolisi. After guiding the Springboks to consecutive World Cup victories, Kolisi secured a lucrative deal with the Hollywoodbets Sharks, making him the highest-paid rugby player globally.
2. Owen Farrell (Racing 92) – £797,000
England's stalwart fly-half, Owen Farrell, made headlines with his move to France's Racing 92. This transition not only elevated his game but also positioned him among the sport's top earners.
3. Finn Russell (Bath) – £795,000
Scotland's maverick playmaker, Finn Russell, took his talents to Bath, signing a deal that underscores his value and flair on the field.
4. Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath) – £740,000
Renowned for his electrifying agility, South Africa's Cheslin Kolbe ventured to Japan, joining Suntory Sungoliath, and continues to dazzle fans while earning a substantial salary.
5. Faf de Klerk (Yokohama Canon Eagles) – £716,000
The dynamic scrum-half, Faf de Klerk, embraced a new challenge in Japan with the Yokohama Canon Eagles, reflecting the nation's growing investment in rugby talent.
6. Dan Biggar (Toulon) – £636,000
Wales' experienced fly-half, Dan Biggar, enhanced his career with a move to French giants Toulon, securing a deal that matches his on-field prowess.
7. Maro Itoje (Saracens) – £636,000
England's commanding lock, Maro Itoje, remains a cornerstone for Saracens, with a salary reflecting his indispensable role in both club and international arenas.
8. Antoine Dupont (Toulouse) – £557,000
France's captain and scrum-half extraordinaire, Antoine Dupont, continues to mesmerize at Toulouse, earning a salary that befits his status as one of the game's finest.
9. Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights) – £506,000
The rugby league superstar has shown consistently - as to why the Newcastle Knights made a good move by taking a chance on him
all those years ago. Although he has had concerns surrounding concussions, the dynamite 'hot stepper' remains one of the game's highest paid.
10. Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers) – £502,000
Another league star making waves in union, Nathan Cleary's tenure with the Penrith Panthers highlights the financial rewards of such transitions.
11. Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm) – £502,000
Cameron Munster's dynamic play for the Melbourne Storm has not only earned him accolades but also a spot among the top earners in the sport.
12. Mitchell Moses (Parramatta Eels) – £499,000
With a stellar performance for the Parramatta Eels, Mitchell Moses secures his place among rugby's financial elite.
13. Daly Cherry-Evans (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles) – £497,000
As a key player for the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Daly Cherry-Evans' consistent excellence is reflected in his impressive earnings.
14. Tino Fa'asuamaleaui (Gold Coast Titans) – £497,000
Tino Fa'asuamaleaui's impactful performances for the Gold Coast Titans have propelled him into the upper echelons of rugby salaries.
15. Payne Haas (Brisbane Broncos) – £497,000
Dominating the field for the Brisbane Broncos, Payne Haas' formidable presence ensures his spot among the highest earners.
16. Steven Luatua (Bristol Bears) – £493,000
Samoan back-rower Steven Luatua's tenure with the Bristol Bears underscores his value, both on the pitch and in his paycheck.
17. Nicholas Hynes (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks) – £492,000
Nicholas Hynes' stellar contributions to the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks have been rewarded with a salary that matches his talent.
18. James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters) – £492,000
As a standout for the Sydney Roosters, James Tedesco's consistent excellence is mirrored in his substantial earnings.
19. Tom Trbojevic (Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles) – £492,000
Tom Trbojevic's dynamic play for the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles has solidified his place among rugby's top earners.
20. Handré Pollard (Leicester Tigers) – £485,000
South African fly-half Handré Pollard's strategic move to the Leicester Tigers not only bolstered the team's lineup, but also ensured that he is among the highest paid rugby players in the world. It has been reported that Pollard will join the Bulls sometime in 2025.
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