New Delhi, July 30 -- Think Cristiano Ronaldo is the richest footballer on Earth? Or maybe Lionel Messi with his mega deals and global fame? Think again. The richest footballer in the world is a name most fans wouldn't recognise on the pitch, but off it, he could probably buy your favourite club.

Meet Faiq Bolkiah, a player with a modest football resume and a jaw-dropping net worth of $20 billion.

Bolkiah, 27, who captains the Brunei national team and currently plays for Ratchaburi FC in Thailand, may not be a household name in footballing circles, but his estimated net worth of $20 billion easily eclipses even Ronaldo's.

The reason? He's the nephew of the Sultan of Brunei, one of the richest royals in the world. While his footballing ...