Despite Michael Jordan Jock Tax, LeBron James, Conor McGregor & Tiger Woods Beaten by New ‘Highest Paid Athlete in the US’ After Minting Historical Deal

Lionel Messi took the world by storm when he first left the Spanish club Barcelona. He gave fans another shock when he decided to cross the Atlantic and join Inter Miami instead of renewing the contract with PSG. After he weighed in his options, which must have included a return to Blaugrana or penning a more lucrative deal with Saudi pro clubs, he preferred a league that is still finding its feet. More details about his new deal have emerged which has put several American sports stars on notice.

The Argentine player, after collecting the coveted world cup trophy last year, has completed his soccer career. Further, he opted against a move to Saudi when Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante followed in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo. Not only does Messi’s contract makes him the highest-paid player in MLS but also puts him ahead of other American greats.

Lionel Messi now sits at the top of the highest-paid American athletes’ pyramid

The forward’s unique deal with Inter Miami also has specific stipulations with sponsors, Apple, Adidas, and Fanatics. He is expected to share the revenue spoils with MLS’s sponsors. In addition, he can exercise the option to buy a minority stake in the club, akin to David Beckham.

Inter Miami’s managing owner Jorge Mas revealed Messi will pocket close to $60 million per year. It includes his salary, an option of owning a stake in the club, and his signing bonus. In addition, he will be tied to the club from July 1, 2023, until December 2025.

Even after deducting federal tax, Jock’s tax, and Medicare, the 7-time Ballon d’Or winner will bank over $31 million as net income.

How does Messi’s new contract fare in comparison with Conor McGregor, Tiger Woods and LeBron James?

In comparison, the NBA star LeBron James is currently collecting $46,698,737, as per Hoops Hype. His contract will touch the $50 million mark if he chooses to play in the 2024/25 session. The Lakers star is currently the fourth highest-paid player in NBA. He also topped the charts as the highest-paid athlete in 2022, taking the crown from Conor McGregor.

On the other hand, CelebrityNetWorth caps Tiger Woods‘ annual salary at $50 million per year. Recently, LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman informed Tucker Carlson that the pro tour was ready to shell out $700-$800 million to Woods for a potential switch.

Likewise, Forbes listed McGregor’s earnings in 2022 at $43 million, which made him the 35th highest-paid athlete of the year. However, ‘Mystic Mac’ suffered a financial skid as he racked in $180 million in 2021.

Read More: Days After Lionel Messi Receiving $440 Million Offer, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Girlfriend Georgina Drops 1-Word Reaction to PSG Star’s Wife Antonella’s Laureus Award Tribute

What do you think of this new lucrative deal penned by Lionel Messi? Do you believe the soccer star is minting substantial money with his new deal? Let us know in the comments below.

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