The three-time World Player of the Year was unveiled by France Football magazine as the highest-earning player in soccer on Tuesday , collecting €33 million ( $ 52 million ) in wages and endorsements during 2011 . France Football magazine declares Lionel Messi the world 's highest-earning player . It says Madrid striker earned $ 46 million in wages and sponsorships in 2011 . Second on the list is former England captain David Beckham after taking home $ 52 million . Real England 's David Beckham is third on the list after collecting $ 46 million .
France Football magazine declares Lionel Messi the world 's highest-earning player . It says Madrid striker earned $ 46 million in wages and sponsorships in 2011 . Second on the list is former England captain David Beckham after taking home $ 52 million . Real England 's David Beckham is third on the list after collecting $ 46 million .