Lionel Messi, now 37, has reinforced his legend not just on the pitch, but also in the financial arena. In 2025, Forbes ranks him as the 5th highest‑paid athlete globally, earning a staggering $135 million. He earns $60M from on‑field salary/winnings and $75M from endorsements and other deals. He trails only Cristiano Ronaldo ($275M), Stephen Curry, Tyson Fury, and Dak Prescott
• His guaranteed compensation in 2025 stands at a record $20.45 M, making him the highest-paid player in MLS, and enough to exceed the entire payrolls of 21 other MLS teams.
• Among active soccer players, Messi is still in the elite financial tier, though Cristiano Ronaldo remains #1 globally and in football, with $275M total earnings.
Lionel Messi isn’t just the world’s greatest soccer player, he’s also its wealthiest athlete among soccer players, with a diversified financial empire built through:
• A record-breaking salary at Inter Miami
• High-profile endorsements
• Media, product, and investment ventures
He remains a global icon, reshaping both soccer and business landscapes.
