Home/Soccer

USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Lionel Messi is not only one of the greatest soccer players of all time but also amongst the highest-earning soccer stars in the world with the Argentine amassing immense wealth over the years. His move to Inter Miami in 2023 opened new doors for the ex-PSG superstar who currently stands as the second richest soccer athlete in the world.

Apart from his massive paycheck as a soccer icon, La Pulga has multiple brand deals that see him remain at the upper echelon. The 2022 World Cup winner is one of the most sought-after brand ambassadors with multiple companies shelling out massive amounts of money to get a deal in place with the Albiceleste skipper.

Lionel Messi: Net Worth and Wages in 2024

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

La Pulga made a surprising switch to Inter Miami last year following his time at PSG. The move to the United States saw the Barcelona legend pen an impressive contract with the Herons that will put multiple MLS sides to shame. The Argentine is the highest-paid MLS star with a $12 million contract per annum. With Messi signing a two-and-a-half-year deal with the franchise, the Argentine is expected to make $30 million on just his wages.

Apart from his basic contract with Inter Miami, the Argentine also had a deal set in place with MLS, Adidas, and Apple. Both Apple and Adidas are bound to share a fixed cut of the revenue following a season with the Argentine which includes the revenue from broadcasting to jersey sales.

With all things taken into consideration, experts believe La Pulga’s two-and-a-half-year deal rises to $150 million in valuation. With how things stand in 2024, the Argentine boasts an impressive net worth of $600 million, standing as the second richest soccer star in the world.

Brand deals and Endorsements

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Now while La Pulga’s salary over the years has played a big role in his net worth, the star isn’t behind anyone when it comes to brand deals and endorsements. Messi is the brand ambassador for multiple brands such as Lay’s, Budweiser, and Pepsi amongst many others. The Argentine superstar also signed a massive lifetime deal with Adidas in 2017 that sees him take home $25 million per annum.

Read More: Lionel Scaloni Speaks on Countering Challenges Posed by Lionel Messi’s Retirement- “Great Players Left & Argentina Continued”

Apart from his work for brands, Messi also serves as the tourism ambassador for the Saudi Arabian Tourism authorities netting in a $15 million paycheck per year. In addition, the Inter Miami star has invested in multiple properties over the years with the player owning top-of-the-line hotels in Ibiza, Mallorca, Baqueira, and Sotogrande.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Messi’s net worth is a testimony to his success since he signed his first contract on a napkin at the age of 13. Being one of the most decorated soccer players, his influence has known no bounds, with the Argentine venturing into education, philanthropy, hospitality and more.

WATCH THIS STORY: : Max Verstappen joins Lionel Messi in creating special historic feat