James Ward-Prowse at a Glance
- Net Worth (2025): £37 Million
- Birthdate: November 1, 1994
- Birthplace: Portsmouth, England
- Profession: Professional Footballer
- Nationality: English
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What is James Ward-Prowse’s Net Worth?
James Ward-Prowse has a net worth of £37 million. An English professional footballer, he is recognized as one of the Premier League‘s foremost set-piece specialists. His fortune has been built almost entirely from his long and consistent career in top-flight English football.
Ward-Prowse spent the vast majority of his career at Southampton, rising from their academy to become club captain. As his importance to the team grew, his salary increased, culminating in a contract worth a reported £75,000 per week.
His financial standing took a significant leap in August 2023. Following Southampton’s relegation, West Ham United secured his services for a transfer fee of £30 million. This move to the London club came with a substantial pay increase, with his West Ham contract paying a salary of £100,000 per week, or £5.2 million annually. His status as an England international also attracts brand endorsements, which supplement his club earnings.
Early Life
James Ward-Prowse was born in Portsmouth, Hampshire. His father, John Ward-Prowse, is a barrister. Despite his family being supporters of Portsmouth F.C., Ward-Prowse joined the academy of their South Coast rivals, Southampton, at the age of eight.
As a young player, he was determined to overcome concerns about his slight build. In a move to “toughen up,” he secretly began training with non-league Havant & Waterlooville while still in Southampton’s youth system, an experience he credits with helping him develop the resilience needed for professional football.
Career
James Ward-Prowse’s professional career is defined by his two-decade association with Southampton. He joined the club’s famed academy as a child and made his first-team debut in October 2011 at just 16 years old. He signed his first professional contract in May 2012.
Over the next decade, he became a central figure for the club, known for his incredible stamina, leadership, and, most notably, his world-class free-kick ability. His prowess from dead-ball situations led Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola to call him the best free-kick taker in the world. He holds Southampton’s club record for the most Premier League appearances, playing 343 times in the competition.
After Southampton was relegated from the Premier League in 2023, Ward-Prowse moved to West Ham United in a £30 million deal, allowing him to continue playing at the top level. After one full season at the London Stadium, he joined Nottingham Forest on a season-long loan for the 2024-2025 campaign. He has also been capped 11 times for the England national team.
