When you think of women’s football today, one name stands out: Sam Kerr. From leading Chelsea to league titles to captaining the Matildas on the world stage, Kerr has become one of the most recognized faces in global sport.
But beyond the goals, trophies, and celebrations, fans and analysts alike are curious about her financial success. Sam Kerr Salary Compared: How She Ranks Among Top Female Footballers is a hot topic—and today, we’re digging into just that.
Let’s explore where Sam Kerr stands in the salary rankings, how her income breaks down, and who else is making big money in the women’s game.
The Rise of Sam Kerr
Born in Perth, Australia, Sam Kerr’s journey to stardom is one of grit, skill, and non-stop determination. With a career spanning the W-League, NWSL, and the FA Women’s Super League, she has broken records and redefined what’s possible for female footballers.
As of 2025, she’s not only the captain of the Matildas but also the star striker for Chelsea FC Women. Her performance on the field has translated into massive popularity—and impressive earnings.
But how does her income compare to her peers?
Sam Kerr’s 2025 Earnings: A Breakdown
Let’s start with the base figure. As of 2025, Sam Kerr earns an estimated $2.5 million USD annually, coming from several sources:
Chelsea FC Salary: Around $600,000/year
Matildas (National Team): ~$90,000/year
Endorsements (Nike, EA Sports, etc.): $1.5–$2 million/year
Performance Bonuses & Other Income: ~$200,000/year
This income makes Kerr one of the highest-paid female players in the world today. But is she number one? Let’s see how she compares.
Top 10 Highest-Paid Female Footballers in 2025
Here’s a look at some of the most financially successful women in soccer right now:
| Player | Total Estimated Annual Income (USD) |
|---|---|
| Alex Morgan | $5.1 million |
| Megan Rapinoe (retired, still earns via endorsements) | $3.7 million |
| Sam Kerr | $2.5 million |
| Ada Hegerberg | $2.1 million |
| Alexia Putellas | $2 million |
| Trinity Rodman | $1.8 million |
| Lieke Martens | $1.6 million |
| Wendie Renard | $1.4 million |
| Aitana Bonmatí | $1.3 million |
| Christine Sinclair | $1.1 million |
As we can see, Sam Kerr ranks #3 on the global list—a testament to both her elite skill level and her brand power. While she doesn’t top the list, she’s comfortably positioned in the upper echelon of the sport.
Why Sam Kerr’s Salary Stands Out
Sam Kerr’s income might not be the highest, but it’s one of the most balanced and consistent. Here’s why she stands out:
1. Stability and Performance
Many top female players see a spike in earnings based on international tournaments or World Cup exposure. Kerr, on the other hand, has maintained a steady stream of income from both club and country for years.
2. Endorsement Goldmine
Sam has scored major deals with Nike, EA Sports, and Powerade, among others. Her FIFA 23 cover appearance was a global moment—and it boosted her commercial visibility dramatically.
3. International Appeal
Unlike many players who are local stars, Kerr is a global name. She plays in England, represents Australia, and is featured in international ad campaigns—this worldwide relevance adds value to her brand.
The Equal Pay Movement & Its Impact
A big factor in rising female football salaries is the push for equal pay. Australia has been one of the leaders in this area. Thanks to Football Australia’s landmark decision, the Matildas now receive equal match pay as the Socceroos, which has helped boost Kerr’s national team earnings.
Similarly, the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) has led this charge, allowing players like Alex Morgan and Trinity Rodman to earn more through base salaries and collective bargaining agreements.
Kerr’s standing proves that this movement isn’t just symbolic—it translates to real, impactful income gains.
What Separates the Top Earners from the Rest?
There’s a significant gap between the highest earners like Kerr and many other pro women’s footballers. Here's what usually makes the difference:
Club visibility (WSL, NWSL, Liga F, D1 Arkema)
Performance in international tournaments
Major endorsement deals
Active social media presence
Media representation & personality appeal
Kerr checks all these boxes—and she does it while staying grounded and focused.
Sam Kerr vs. Alex Morgan
One of the most frequent comparisons in the women’s game is Sam Kerr vs. Alex Morgan—not just on the field but off it too.
Alex Morgan earns around $5 million annually, mainly due to huge endorsement contracts and legacy status in the U.S.
Sam Kerr, though slightly behind in total income, is arguably more consistent in performance and more active in European club competition.
Both athletes have done wonders for the game, and both represent the new standard of what a female footballer can earn and achieve.
Off-Field Ventures: What Else Boosts Sam’s Income?
Kerr isn’t relying solely on football. She’s ventured into:
???? Children’s Book Series
Sam has co-authored a children’s book series inspired by her life and football journey. These books are not only motivational for kids but also a great way to diversify her brand.
???? Social Media Collaborations
Kerr’s 1.3M+ Instagram followers make her a hot commodity for brands. Sponsored posts can earn her upwards of $10,000 per campaign.
???? Real Estate
Rumors suggest Kerr has investments in real estate in both the UK and Australia—another smart long-term financial move.
Will Sam Kerr’s Salary Keep Growing?
Absolutely.
The trajectory for women’s football is pointing up, with bigger stadiums, better broadcasting, and more media attention than ever before. As women’s Champions League games draw global audiences and domestic leagues secure stronger sponsorships, player salaries will continue to rise.
Sam Kerr, already at the top, is positioned perfectly to benefit from the growth. With her contract at Chelsea likely due for another renewal and her global appeal expanding, there’s every reason to believe she could reach or even surpass the $3 million mark soon.
Conclusion
So, when it comes to Sam Kerr Salary Compared: How She Ranks Among Top Female Footballers, the answer is clear—she’s right up there with the best.
With an estimated $2.5 million in annual earnings, Kerr is the third-highest-paid female footballer in the world. Her income reflects her superstar status, her hard-earned brand power, and her crucial role in growing the global game.
In a world where female athletes are finally receiving the recognition—and pay—they deserve, Sam Kerr is leading the charge. Her story is a blueprint for the future of women’s football: talent, consistency, leadership, and smart brand-building.
Whether you’re a fan of the Matildas, Chelsea, or just love the beautiful game, Sam Kerr is a name that will continue to dominate both scoreboards and paychecks for years to come.