When it comes to legends in the sports world, few names carry the weight and prestige as Shaquille O’Neal. Known for his dominating presence on the basketball court and his ability to shatter backboards, O’Neal’s legacy is one that will be remembered and has made him $400 million rich. However, recently another athlete has caught Shaq’s attention, and it’s not from the realm of basketball.

Rather, it’s a soccer legend whose prowess on the field has made him one of the richest athletes in the world. Lionel Messi, with a staggering net worth of $600 million, has set the soccer world ablaze with his recent performance for Inter Miami. Messi’s transition to Major League Soccer has been nothing short of extraordinary.

In just nine appearances, the Argentinian superstar has managed to score 11 goals, leaving fans and fellow athletes in awe of his talent. However, it is not just his recent performance that has captured Shaq’s attention. But rather it is a masterclass moment that occurred five years ago.

Shaquille O’Neal in awe of Lionel Messi’s masterclass

To paint the picture, it is the 2018-2019 season of the UEFA Champions League. The stage is set for the first leg of the semi-final between Barcelona and Liverpool at the Camp Nou stadium. The atmosphere is electric, with fans eagerly awaiting what promises to be an intense match.

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In the 82nd minute of the game, Barcelona is awarded a free-kick. Messi, as he often does, steps up to take the set-piece. With a magical touch and precision, he curls the ball into the top right corner of the net, leaving Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson helpless in his attempt to make the save. The goal is a thing of beauty, perfectly executed with finesse and accuracy. The goal not only secured a 3-0 victory for Blaugrana but also won the UEFA.com Goal of the Season for 2018/19.

Recently, the video of this incredible goal made its rounds on social media, capturing the attention of fans from all corners of the globe. Among those impressed was none other than Shaquille O’Neal himself. Taking to his Instagram story, the NBA legend shared an edit of Messi’s goal, showing a mesmerizing angle of the goal.

Shaquille O’Neal, like many other Americans, has been deeply impressed by the immense talent and greatness of Lionel Messi. This admiration has only intensified since the World Cup winner joined Inter Miami in a highly lucrative agreement, solidifying his status as the highest-paid athlete in America.

How Lionel Messi is the highest-paid athlete in America?

The contract Lionel Messi has signed with Inter Miami is truly remarkable, showcasing his immense value. With an annual salary of approximately $55 million, he holds the title of highest-paid player in MLS. What sets him apart even further is his profit-sharing agreements with major sponsors such as Apple, Adidas, and Fanatics.

Additionally, Messi’s stake in Inter Miami adds another level of prestige to his already impressive deal. In total, these earnings amount to a staggering sum of around $150 million per year. All this firmly establishes him as the highest-paid athlete across all sports in the US.

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